Keeping the national parks legacy alive
From the
majestic mountains and sun-soaked canyons of the West to the misty
forests and bayous of the Southeast, there are many places in America’s
landscape that inspire wonder and awe. Our national parks protect that
pristine beauty, and give us the opportunity to share it with the next
generation.
However, with budget shortfalls of more than $800
million, parks are shortening visiting hours, laying off park rangers
and canceling programs. Some face immediate threats from developers
seeking to drill, mine or log in and around these pristine areas.
“With
park closings and pressure from developers, fewer people are getting a
chance to enjoy our national forests—and unless we speak up, the next
generation might not have them at all,” said Program Director John
Rumpler.
To restore our national parks, we’re working to win
the full funding that our parks deserve. In June, the U.S. House of
Representatives passed the largest funding increase ever for America’s
national parks, which guarantees $2.5 billion for the National Park
Service, an increase of $223 million from 2007.
As the bill
moves through the Legislature, we’re working with the National Parks
Conservation Association to encourage the Senate to also support this
critical funding.
Visit the "Preserve NM"
page to read about Environment New Mexico's most recent efforts to save
forests, wild rivers and other wilderness areas here in New Mexico.
