June 22, 2018
ALBUQUERQUE: On Wednesday, June 20, the Senate rejected a spending rescissions package which would have cut funding to the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The New Mexico Wildlife Federation thanks US Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich for their vote against this bill, which not only would have cut funding for LWCF but would have also had further negative impacts for families across the country.
LWCF has brought millions of dollars to New Mexico, funding restoration projects, increasing access to public lands and recreational opportunities, and supporting local parks and ballfields. Supported by oil and gas leasings, the fund comes at no cost to taxpayers. The defeated bill would have taken $16 million from LWCF, including projects originally planned for New Mexico’s national forests.
“Once again, our Senators are taking the lead when it comes to fighting for and defending the Land and Water Conservation Fund,” said New Mexico Wildlife Federation Acting Executive Director Todd Leahy. “A defeat on this bill is a win for conservation and public lands in New Mexico.”
Wednesday’s win for LWCF is only one part of a months’ long fight. The Land and Water Conservation Fund expires on September 30th, less than 100 days away, and the time to permanently reauthorize and fully fund the program is now.
“With an expiration date looming, the New Mexico Wildlife Federation calls on the entire New Mexico delegation to support the full reauthorization of LWCF,” added Leahy. “Ensuring the future of this crucial program is the best gift we can give to future generations.”
