Washington, DC — The National Wildlife Federation and a broad coalition of more than 50 of its affiliates and partners urged Congress to swiftly reauthorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation. The program — one of the oldest and most successful conservation programs in U.S. history — conserves public lands and open space, safeguards fish and wildlife habitat, supports outdoor recreation and stewards cultural and historical landmarks.

“The Land and Water Conservation Fund is at the root of our work to connect communities and kids with wildlife and our outdoor heritage,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “It is simply the most effective land conservation and outdoor recreation program in the world. We’re proud to join with our affiliates and partners to speak with one voice urging Congress to reauthorize and fully fund this critical program — for us, for wildlife and for all Americans.”

The Land and Water Conservation Fund, which is funded through fees paid on offshore oil and gas development and not taxpayer dollars, has invested in communities across America.

“LWCF, one of our nation’s most important and successful conservation programs, is in danger of expiring,” the letter reads to leaders of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources and the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. “We are counting on your leadership to ensure that doesn’t happen. We’re calling on Congress to permanently reauthorize and fully fund this program, which is crucial to protecting America’s great outdoor and wildlife heritage.”