Our Land, Up for Grabs: The Battle Over America's Public Lands
San Francisco — A battle is looming over America’s public lands. Despite decades of strong bipartisan support for protecting these lands, recent congressional actions suggest a shift in priorities. The United States Senate recently voted to support an amendment that could lead to the sale or transfer of federal lands, excluding national parks and monuments, to states or local governments.
These lands, which include national forests, rangelands, wildlife refuges, and historic sites, are integral to the nation's natural and historical heritage. The House of Representatives also passed a resolution supporting the reduction of federal lands, advocating for increased state and local control over these resources.
These measures, though symbolic, indicate a potential shift in how America’s public lands are managed. The future of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program that supports state and local park projects, hangs in the balance as Congress decides whether to reauthorize it.
Since its inception in 1965, the fund has provided nearly $17 billion for conservation efforts, including 41,000 state and local park projects. However, the program is set to expire unless Congress acts to extend it.
Voter support for land protection remains strong, with billions authorized for conservation in state and local elections. Yet, this consensus is often overlooked, as seen in states like Florida, New Jersey, and Maine, where funds intended for land protection are being redirected.
Public lands provide significant economic benefits, contributing $41 billion to the economy and supporting 355,000 jobs in 2013 alone. Despite this, some elected officials continue to push for policies that could undermine these resources.
As Wallace Stegner once noted, our wild places are “geographies of hope.” It is crucial that leaders listen to voters and prioritize the protection of these lands, ensuring they remain a part of America’s legacy.
Originally posted by New York Times.