While this global pandemic has hit all nations and all our US states hard, there is no denying the outdoors have served as a getaway to relieve people from isolation.
In the midst of quarantine, trails at local and state parks have seen a dramatic increase in visitation from North Carolinians trying to get outside for some fresh air. Through these visits, it’s been clear that open spaces have been important for people to maintain their health and bridge the gap to a good quality of life during a time of great uncertainty.
As the North Carolina legislator prepares to go into session, the Land for Tomorrow coalition urges state lawmakers to maintain reliable funding for the state’s conservation trust funds in this upcoming fiscal year. The continued investment for these funds will not only protect our state’s natural resources but it will also invest in the well-being of all North Carolinians and help rebuild our local and recreational economies. By doing so, North Carolina can continue to establish itself as a great place for our residents to work, live, and play – as well as provide economic opportunity for those in the recreational industry.
Here are The Land for Tomorrow Coalition’s legislative priorities for the NC legislator for FY20-21:
- $19,657,529 for Clean Water Management Trust Fund (CWMTF)
This amount reflects a $13,157,530 base budget + $4,500,000 in new recurring funds + $1,999,999 in nonrecurring funds.
- $19,642,884 million per year for the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF)
This amount reflects a $16,242,884 base budget + $1,400,000 in new recurring funds + $2,000,000 in nonrecurring funds.
- $7,800,000 for the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund
This amount reflects a $4,300,000 base budget + $3,500,000 in nonrecurring funds.
We look forward to the upcoming session and working with members of the General Assembly to establish a budget that continues to invest in conservation and North Carolina’s constituents.
