Accessible Recreation Opportunities

The EXPLORE Act’s accessibility provisions (Sections 214–215) represent the highest-probability entry point for disc golf on BLM land. BLM’s early implementation has focused heavily on accessibility, making this the alignment point with the strongest traction.

What the law requires

The statute requires BLM to select at least two new accessible recreation opportunities in each BLM region. Those opportunities may include biking, shooting, picnic facilities, outdoor constructed features, and — critically — “any other” recreation opportunities identified with stakeholders and consistent with the applicable land management plan.

This “any other” language is the clearest textual opening for disc golf in the entire Act.

Why disc golf fits accessibility

Disc golf is inherently adaptable for accessible design:

• Shorter loops — 3, 6, or 9-hole accessible circuits within a full course layout
• Accessible tee surfaces — Concrete or compacted aggregate pads accommodate wheelchair users
• Level pathways — Connection paths between holes can be graded for universal access
• Adaptive equipment — Seated throwing aids and lightweight discs enable participation for users with mobility limitations
• Clinic programming — Low-barrier format scales easily for adaptive sports clinics
• Self-paced activity — No time pressure, no team dependency, play at your own speed

BLM’s accessibility rollout

BLM has moved quickly on accessibility since the Act became law:

• Added enhanced accessibility descriptions to more than 100 recreation sites
• Assembled photos for 76+ sites with accessibility features
• Launched a second-phase rollout starting in Utah, updating nearly 25 Visit pages
• Published state-by-state accessibility stories tied explicitly to the EXPLORE Act
• Highlighted projects including Phoenix District’s accessible shooting sites, Uncompahgre Field Office’s adaptive bike trail, and Idaho’s adaptive-ready trails

How to propose accessible disc golf

When engaging a BLM field office about accessible disc golf:

1. Reference Sections 214–215 directly — this is the statutory mandate they’re already working to fulfill
2. Propose a specific accessible design: number of accessible holes, surface type, pathway grades, signage standards
3. Include an adaptive programming plan: clinics, veteran wellness events, youth outreach
4. Partner with local adaptive sports organizations for credibility and programming capacity
5. Frame disc golf as one element of a broader accessible recreation package at the site