Republican Congressman Paul Gosar introduced legislation on May 14 that would expand federally reserved land around the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground. The bill, H.R. 8686, seeks to authorize the withdrawal and reservation of about 22,000 acres of federal land in Yuma and La Paz counties in western Arizona.
Supporters say the proposed expansion is intended to create a larger safety buffer for military air delivery testing and training exercises at the proving ground. According to Gosar’s office, this measure is needed to support military readiness and advanced weapons testing.
Gosar said in a statement that the proving ground is “one of the most important military installations in the country” and added that this measure would help ensure troops can safely conduct advanced testing and training operations.
The proposal would allow the Army to use approximately 21,783 acres near Highway 95 for higher-altitude testing, longer glide distances for guided parachute systems, and more complex tactical training scenarios. Army officials have said current land limitations restrict some operations. Additionally, an extra 249 acres within the Howard Cantonment area would be formally reserved; this land has reportedly been used by the Army since the 1950s under authorities that have expired.
The Yuma Proving Ground has long served as a site where military equipment is tested and personnel are trained in desert conditions. It remains one of the Defense Department’s major centers for ground combat systems testing as well as aviation and airdrop operations.
According to Gosar’s office, work on this proposal began during President Joe Biden’s administration with formal approval following during President Donald Trump’s term—a timeline supporters say shows bipartisan agreement on operational needs.
If passed by Congress, H.R. 8686 would amend existing law by creating a new section specifically covering this withdrawal area at Yuma Proving Ground. The Department of Interior would continue managing these lands under current federal laws while maintaining public access for recreation, hunting, wildlife conservation efforts, wildfire management practices, cultural resource protection measures—and preserving rights-of-way along utility corridors.
