WASHINGTON, D.C. – Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke appeared before the House Natural Resources Committee today to discuss the $11.8 billion Interior Department budget, which would slash the Land and Water Conservation Fund by 98 percent and prioritize energy development on public lands. He spoke to the Senate Energy Natural Resources Committee Tuesday.

Collin O’Mara, the National Wildlife Federation’s president and CEO, said:

“In budget hearings this week, Americans heard a lot about energy dominance through drilling and mining our public lands, but not nearly enough about conserving and restoring public lands for future generations. The American people want balance to sustain our wildlife populations, ensure clean air and water, expand outdoor opportunities, and bolster rural economies. Americans deserve better from this administration.”