Land and Water Conservation Fund
During her first town hall meeting, newly elected U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler was asked a question regarding the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The Congresswoman said she does not support the use of federal funds for conservation efforts unless it is constitutional or affects her constituents socially.
The LWCF is authorized by Congress to receive up to $900 million annually from offshore oil and gas leases. It is not an earmark, and it is not unconstitutional.
LWCF supports federal, state and local efforts to enhance parks and wildlife areas. It gives us clean water, supports jobs and local economies, protects our shared cultural heritage, maintains healthy communities, and provides a promising future for our grandchildren.
Many Southwest Washington residents identify strongly with Mt. St. Helen's National Volcanic Monument, the Willapa and Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuges and the White Salmon Wild and Scenic River - all areas preserved through LWCF, as well as many smaller local projects.
This year LWCF has a chance for sound funding for the first time in many years. Clearing up misunderstandings such as Rep. Herrera Beutler's will ensure that LWCF's promise is fulfilled.
Charlotte Persons
Kelso
