Inside Interior: September 5, 2025
As summer came to a close this Labor Day, the U.S. Department of the Interior highlighted a season of progress on recreation, conservation, safety, and energy. With gas prices reaching their lowest levels in five years, families were able to enjoy more affordable park visits and travel opportunities. The department emphasized its ongoing commitment to expanding recreational access and easing energy costs, helping Americans make the most of the summer months.
Conservation and Recreation
The Department announced plans to reconstitute the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council. This group will focus on strengthening partnerships across all levels of government, ensuring access to recreational sports, and honoring America’s longstanding hunting heritage. The effort reflects a broader commitment to balancing outdoor recreation with wildlife conservation.
Public Safety Improvements
Closer to home, the Make DC Safe and Beautiful task force reported significant progress. Violent crime in Washington, D.C., has dropped 40 percent, while carjackings are down 82 percent. More than 1,700 arrests have been made and 170 illegal firearms removed from the streets. Officials credit the collaboration between federal and local agencies, including the U.S. Park Police, for these gains in public safety.
Energy and National Security
Energy also remained a central theme. Secretary Bergam joined the New York Post’s Podforce One podcast and appeared on Fox Business to discuss energy’s role in both economic growth and national security. He emphasized the importance of “energy dominance” at home and abroad, connecting domestic prosperity with global stability. Next week, he and Energy Secretary Chris Wright will travel to Europe for the region’s largest gas conference, seeking opportunities for American companies to expand exports and partnerships.
The U.S. Geological Survey also released a new national mineral map to support domestic mining and energy development. Additionally, Secretary Bergam met with Malta’s deputy prime minister to discuss energy exports, underscoring the international dimension of America’s energy strategy.
Supporting Territories
Finally, Secretary Bergam, alongside Alex Meyer of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, hosted the Interagency Group on Insular Areas. This group ensures that the unique voices and needs of U.S. territories remain part of national decision-making.
From conservation and community safety to energy leadership and territorial inclusion, the Department of the Interior presented a wide-ranging snapshot of its work this week, focused on building a safer, more secure, and more connected future.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior
