State and local conservation funds could see a boost
with full federal land and water funding
North Bass Island, Lake Erie | The Land and Water Conservation Fund has been instrumental in preserving some of America's best-loved parks, wilderness areas and seashores. Less well known is the fund's catalytic role through its State side matching fund program in the creation of state and local funding for acquiring and developing park and recreation land. In its first 40 years, the LWCF provided $3.7 billion to state and local governments, matched for a total of $7.4 billion.
The LWCF was established in 1965 to direct a small percentage of offshore oil and gas royalties to conserving the nation's land and water. Although these revenues typically amount to more than $6 billion a year, Congress has consistently shortchanged the fund, which is authorized to receive $900 million a year.
A provision guaranteeing full and dedicated funding of the LWCF was part of the energy legislation that passed the House just before the August recess. When Congress returns in mid-September, there will be a strong push for action in the Senate. To find out how can you can help, go to the website of the Land and Water Conservation Coalition. |
A rising tide of ballot initiatives around the country
Photo by Justin Russell | It seems like every few days a new campaign pops up on our website map, which is generated by The Trust for Public Land's Landvote database. Although the economic forecast remains gloomy, in November five states and many towns, counties and special districts are asking voters to make an investment in conserving their land and water for future generations.
So far, the Conservation Campaign is sponsoring three campaigns and supporting many others. The assistance we provide can make the difference between winning and losing the election, especially in today's difficult political environment. With your help, we can bring our proven combination of strategic, financial, legal and logistical assistance to more campaigns. Support a particular campaign or our work in general -- matched by our board challenge grant -- by donating online. |
Tools for grassroots campaigners
If you are running a ballot measure campaign to create conservation funding or thinking about organizing one in the future, take a look at our online Conservation Campaign Toolkit. Drawing from the experience of winning campaigns as well as experts at the Conservation Campaign and The Trust for Public Land, the kit compiles best practices, tips and sample materials. "Tools" include a step-by-step guide to running a campaign, case studies of successful campaigns, free website hosting and professional assistance from the Conservation Campaign. |
|
Double your conservation dollars!
Our board will match your online donation dollar for dollar. We need your gift today to defend and expand funding for conservation.
|
