Virginia Cramer, virginia.cramer@sierraclub.org, 804-519-8449
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Tomorrow marks the 25th annual National Public Lands Day, a day to give back to and enjoy our country’s great outdoors. This year’s celebration comes as the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has protected places in almost every state is set to expire. The fund will expire Sept. 30 without Congressional action.
In anticipation, Dan Ritzman, Land, Water and Wildlife Director for Sierra Club’s Our Wild America Campaign issued the following statement.
“At a time when we’re seeing the largest roll-back of public lands protections in history, today is an important reminder of the deep affinity people across the country have for our parks and special places. Public lands are the backbone of many local economies, important links to culture and history, and places for people to connect with each other.
“The Land and Water Conservation Fund has been central to creating a network of protected outdoor spaces, both near and far, for people to explore and enjoy today. Thousands of people will gather on public lands tomorrow to volunteer and celebrate the country’s outdoor legacy. It’s time for Congress to do its part by re-authorizing the Land and Water Conservation Fund.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3 million members and supporters. In addition to helping people from all backgrounds explore nature and our outdoor heritage, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.