How To Protect Our Public Lands from Closure

Quick Answer: How Off-Roaders Can Protect Public Lands from Closure

Off-roaders can help protect public lands from closure by supporting advocacy groups like the Blue Ribbon Coalition, following Tread Lightly! principles, staying informed on land-use policies, participating in trail cleanups, and responsibly educating others on proper trail use.

As off-road enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of our land and ensure that our favorite trails remain open for future generations to enjoy. For the most part we all abide by the Tread Lightly Principals but what more can we do to protect our lands from closure.

 

Blue Ribbon Coalition

Support the Blue Ribbon Coalition

The Blue Ribbon Coalition is a national non-profit organization dedicated to preserving access to public lands for off-road enthusiasts. By supporting the Blue Ribbon Coalition, you can help fund their efforts to protect our rights and advocate for responsible off-roading policies.

Educate yourself and others about land use policies

It's essential to stay informed about land use policies and regulations that affect off-roading in your area. By educating yourself and others, you can help ensure that we are all following the rules and doing our part to protect public lands. More ways to Help Stop Trail Closures

Educating yourself about current issues enables you to help take action steps needed to protect our public lands from being closed. The Blue Ribbon Coalition lays out 5 action steps you can take to defend out public lands. 

Read More ➤➤  Current Issues

Practice the Tread Lightly! principles

As responsible off-roaders, it's important to follow the Tread Lightly! principles, which include staying on designated trails, respecting the rights of others, and leaving no trace. By adhering to these guidelines, we can minimize our impact on the environment and demonstrate that we are responsible users of public lands.

Get involved in trail maintenance and clean-up efforts

Many off-road clubs and organizations organize trail maintenance and clean-up events, which provide an excellent opportunity for us to give back to the off-roading community and help preserve our public lands. 

Join a local off-road club or organization

There's strength in numbers, and joining a local off-road club or organization like Blue Ribbon Coalition can help amplify our voices when it comes to advocating for our rights to access public lands. These groups often work with land managers and government agencies to develop responsible off-roading policies and practices.

Tips to Protect our Public Lands

How To Stop BLM - One Man Did in Arizona

Frequently Asked Questions: Protecting Public Lands from Closure

Why are off-road trails being closed?

Trails are often closed due to environmental damage, misuse, lack of maintenance funding, or pressure from regulatory agencies. Poor trail etiquette, off-trail travel, and failure to follow land-use rules can accelerate closures.

What is the Blue Ribbon Coalition and why does it matter?

The Blue Ribbon Coalition is a national nonprofit that advocates for responsible recreation and protects access to public lands. They work directly with land managers, lawmakers, and recreation groups to prevent unnecessary trail closures.

How does Tread Lightly! help keep trails open?

Tread Lightly! principles reduce environmental impact by encouraging responsible behavior like staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, and leaving no trace. When off-roaders demonstrate responsible use, land managers are less likely to restrict access.

Does joining an off-road club really make a difference?

Yes. Local and national off-road clubs provide organized representation, volunteer labor for trail maintenance, and a unified voice when land-use decisions are made. Strength in numbers matters when advocating for access.

What can I do personally to protect public lands?

You can:

• Support advocacy organizations

• Follow trail rules and closures

• Volunteer for trail cleanups

• Educate new off-roaders

• Speak up during public land-use comment periods

Every responsible action helps show that off-roaders are good stewards of the land.

Can one person really help stop trail closures?

Absolutely. Individual advocacy, reporting issues, attending public meetings, and supporting organizations like the Blue Ribbon Coalition have helped prevent closures in many cases—including successful efforts in states like Arizona.

Cool Jeep Mod: Under the Sun Grille Inserts

Easy, Custom Jeep Style That Takes Minutes to Install

Quick Answer

Under the Sun grille inserts are an easy, bolt-in Jeep mod that lets you customize your Jeep’s iconic grille in under 5 minutes with no drilling, no rust, and fully reversible. Made from aluminum and designed to fit behind the factory grille, they offer protection, style, and personalization without permanent changes.

Jeepers love modifying their rigs. Some upgrades are about performance, others are about protection but sometimes you just want your Jeep to reflect your personality.

That’s where Under the Sun Inserts shine.

Grille Insert with mountains and compass.

Why I Chose Under the Sun Grille Inserts

I’ve tried a lot of Jeep mods over the years, and I appreciate upgrades that are:
• Functional
• Well-made
• Easy to install
• Completely reversible

Under the Sun Inserts check every box.

What Makes These Grille Inserts Stand Out

• No drilling required
• 5-minute install
• 100% aluminum (rustproof)
• Made in the USA
• Two design styles in one insert

💡 They install behind the factory grille, protecting your radiator while adding style.

My Jeep Grille Setup

I’ve run multiple designs over time including:
• Mountain & compass design
• American flag insert

That’s one of my favorite things about these inserts, they’re like t-shirts for your Jeep. Swap them out for seasons, trips, or just because you want a new look.

Purple flag grille insert. 

Installation: Easier Than DIY Options

The entire install took less than five minutes. No cutting, no zip-ties, no frustration.

If you want a walkthrough:
• 🎥 Watch: Under the Sun Grille Insert install (YouTube)
• 📖 Read: How to  Remove Your Jeep Grille
• 🎥 Watch: Step-by-Step How to Remove Your Jeep Grille Video 

Once your grille is off, the insert simply slides into place and secures cleanly.

Durability & Maintenance

These inserts are:
• Strong enough for trail use
• Lightweight
• Easy to clean (just hose them off)

I’ve wheeled with them installed and had zero issues with rattling or movement.

Discount Code 💥

🎟 Save 15% with code: JEEPMOMMA

Is This Mod Worth It?

If you want:
✔ A quick visual upgrade
✔ Zero permanent changes
✔ Something uniquely you

Then yes—this is one of the easiest and most satisfying Jeep mods you can do.

Jeep Momma Tip

Not every Jeep mod needs to be expensive or complicated. Sometimes the best upgrades are the ones that make you smile every time you walk up to your rig.

Jeep Wrangler Plastic Side Steps

Should You Remove Them for Off-Roading?

Quick Answer 

Yes, Jeep recommends removing factory plastic side steps before off-roading.
They reduce ground clearance, are easily damaged by rocks, and can cause body damage on uneven terrain.

Jeep manual - side step removal

Why Jeep Recommends Removing Plastic Side Steps

Factory plastic side steps are commonly found on Jeep Wrangler Sahara models. They designed for daily driving, not trail use. While they make entry and exit easier on pavement, they become a liability once you leave the road.

According to the Jeep Owner’s Manual, these steps should be removed before off-road driving.

Jeep’s Reasons:

• Plastic is not impact-rated for rocks or trail obstacles

• Side steps reduce ground clearance and breakover angle

• Damaged steps can transfer force into fenders and body panels

In short: they’re built for convenience, not capability.

The Real Risk on the Trail

Plastic side steps hang lower than the frame rails, making them one of the first contact points on rocks and ledges. When that happens, they don’t just break but they can bend upward into the body, causing expensive damage.

Common Problems:

• Cracked or torn plastic

• Bent mounting brackets

• Fender damage

• Reduced obstacle clearance

• Getting hung up on rocks instead of sliding over them

Lesson Learned the Hard Way (Real-World Experience)

I learned this lesson firsthand.

While waiting on the trail after navigating a rock section, I relaxed and that’s when it happened. I drove my factory plastic step rail directly over a large rock.

The result?

• Loud impact

• Driver-side step pushed up

• Fender popped out of place

Thankfully, my trail guide knew exactly what to do and was able to pop the step and fender back into place. It could have been a very expensive mistake  I got lucky.

That moment permanently changed how I prep my Jeep for the trail.

Kyle fixing my side step

Ground Clearance & Breakover Angle Matter

Beyond durability, plastic side steps reduce two critical off-road measurements:

• Ground clearance

• Breakover angle

Even losing a couple of inches can mean the difference between:

• Clearing an obstacle

• Or getting stuck, hung up, or damaged

When off-roading, every inch counts.

The Better Option: Rock Sliders

Once I started off-roading regularly, I removed the factory steps and installed metal rock sliders.

Why Rock Sliders Are Better:

• Protect body and frame

• Designed to slide over rocks

• Support vehicle weight

• Improve confidence on technical terrain

• Double as a step for lifted Jeeps

They’re one of the best functional upgrades you can make if you plan to wheel your Jeep.

To Remove or Not Remove Plastic Side Steps?

It depends on how you use your Jeep.

Keep Them If:

• You stay on pavement or light dirt roads

• You don’t encounter rocks or ruts

Remove Them If:

• You wheel regularly

• You encounter rocky or uneven terrain

• You want to avoid body damage

• You plan to upgrade to sliders

Removing them is a simple DIY job with basic tools and well worth the peace of mind.
Jeep Momma's Barricade Rock Slider Install

Jeep manual 0 side step removal

Final Thoughts

Jeep didn’t include that warning in the owner’s manual by accident.

Factory plastic side steps serve a purpose, but off-road use isn’t it. If you plan to explore trails, removing them or replacing them with rock sliders protects your Jeep and preserves its capability.

FAQs 

Should I remove my Jeep’s plastic side steps before off-roading?
Yes. Jeep recommends removing them because they can be damaged and reduce ground clearance.

Can plastic side steps damage my Jeep on the trail?
Yes. They can bend into fenders or body panels when they hit rocks.

Are rock sliders worth it for a Jeep Wrangler?
Absolutely. Rock sliders protect the body, improve capability, and are designed for trail use.

For more essential Jeep Wrangler maintenance tips, visit my Jeep Wrangler Maintenance Guide.

What Does "It's a Jeep Thing" Mean (Explained by a Jeep Owner)

Quick Answer: What Does “It’s a Jeep Thing” Mean?

“It’s a Jeep Thing” is a phrase used by Jeep owners to describe the shared culture, experiences, and mindset that come with owning and driving a Jeep. It reflects a sense of adventure, community, and understanding among Jeep enthusiasts that outsiders may not fully relate to.

In the automotive culture, certain phrases and slogans become emblematic of an entire community. Among them, "It's a Jeep Thing" stands out as more than just a catchy tagline; it embodies a way of life, a philosophy, and a deep-rooted connection among Jeep enthusiasts worldwide. 

Jeep Momma topless Jeep driving

The Origin of “It’s a Jeep Thing”

At first glance, "It's a Jeep Thing" may appear enigmatic, even cryptic, to those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Jeep culture. To decode its meaning, one must delve into the rich history of the Jeep brand. Born out of military necessity during World War II, Jeeps were designed as rugged, utilitarian vehicles capable of traversing the most challenging terrains with ease. Their durability, versatility, and adventurous spirit captured the hearts of soldiers and civilians alike, laying the foundation for a passionate community that endures to this day.

The Core Meaning of “It’s a Jeep Thing” 

"It's a Jeep Thing" encapsulates a sense of camaraderie, shared experiences, and mutual understanding among Jeep owners. It signifies an appreciation for exploration, adventure, and the freedom to roam wherever the trail may lead. It's about embracing the unbridled spirit of adventure and forging lasting connections with like-minded individuals who share a love for the great outdoors and off-road exploration.

Check out my interpretation in this video ➤➤ It's a Jeep Thing

Jeep Momma and her Jeep in the Rocky Mountains

Why Jeep Owners Say “It’s a Jeep Thing”

For Jeep enthusiasts, "It's a Jeep Thing" represents more than just a vehicle; it's a way of life a mindset characterized by resilience, independence, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. It's about tackling challenges head-on, whether on the trail or in everyday life, with the same determination and grit that defines the Jeep brand itself.

Community and the Jeep Lifestyle

Moreover, "It's a Jeep Thing" fosters a sense of community that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Jeep owners form tight-knit bonds through meetups, off-road excursions, and online forums, where they exchange tips, tricks, and stories of their adventures on and off the beaten path. There is even a special Jeep Wave shared among enthusiasts. In this community, age, background, and occupation take a back seat to the shared passion for exploration and the undeniable allure of the Jeep lifestyle.

"It's a Jeep Thing" transcends mere words; it's a feeling, a mindset, and a shared experience that unites Jeep enthusiasts around the globe. It's a reminder that life is an adventure best enjoyed with the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to chart your own course. So the next time you see that iconic phrase emblazoned on a bumper sticker or hear it uttered with a knowing nod, remember: it's more than just a saying—it's a way of life.

As a Jeep owner since 2013, I’ve experienced firsthand how this phrase represents far more than a vehicle, it represents a community and a mindset.

 Frequently Asked Questions About “It’s a Jeep Thing”

Is “It’s a Jeep Thing” just a slogan?
No. While it’s often seen on bumper stickers, it represents a shared culture and mindset among Jeep owners.

Do non-Jeep owners understand “It’s a Jeep Thing”?
Often not fully — the phrase reflects experiences unique to Jeep ownership and off-road culture.

Why do Jeep owners say “You wouldn’t understand”?
Because many Jeep experiences involve trail riding, community, and challenges that create strong shared bonds.