The Land and Water Conservation Fund has saved vital park lands and watershed features in Snohomish and King counties. For 50 years it has served all who love the outdoors and hasn’t cost taxpayers a single penny. It is funded by a tiny portion of revenues from offshore oil drilling, but has had a huge impact on the way we live.
Locally, one of the most important projects in Bothell’s history wouldn’t be possible without LWCF funding. North Creek Forest is the crowning jewel in Bothell’s wildlife corridor. It is on the verge of being completely preserved for wildlife and recreation.
The LWCF also protects our internationally acclaimed destinations such as Mount Rainier, the Pacific Crest Trail and the Olympic National Forest. Wherever you look, it has purchased critical habitat for fish and wildlife, saved our most inspiring places, funded the development of parks and playgrounds, and provided stewardship and jobs through the promotion of working forests.
Today, LWCF may die. A deal being crafted in Congress to keep our government limping along does not include reauthorizing the fund. There is no excuse for letting this critical program expire. It is hard to imagine a more disappointing outcome to all who love the outdoors.
We appeal to our elected leaders to act with all possible urgency to restore LWCF funding.
Eric Adman, president,
Sno-King Watershed Council
Jeanie Robinson, president,
Friends of North Creek Forest
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