Journal Star - Conservation Fund Helps Illinois communities

Op-Ed

By Darin LaHood

As a new congressman and member of the House Natural Resources Committee, I am humbled by the opportunity to bring the priorities and concerns of central Illinois to Washington, D.C.

Recently, constituents from my district have urged me to support the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), so I wanted to provide an update on its status. In December, Congress reauthorized the LWCF for three years. Congress also allocated $450 million to the fund for fiscal year 2016, an almost 50 percent increase from the previous year. I look forward to continuing to advocate a long-term plan for an effective and efficient implementation of the LWCF.

I recognize the importance of protecting our country's beautiful landscapes and understand the impact of the LWCF. Resources from this fund have gone to many national wildlife refuges and recreational areas in central Illinois. LWCF has funded approximately 78 state grant projects in the 18th Congressional District. It has benefited the Peoria Park District, including the Mossville Soccer Complex and the Forest Park Nature Center. The fund has helped establish local parks such as Moffit Nature Park near Chillicothe, the Rochester Bicycle Path near Springfield, Waverly Park Pool in Quincy, and President Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site. These parks and recreational areas are assets to our community and provide opportunities for tourism in our area.
I will continue to support responsible and productive management of our nation's natural resources so that Americans can continue to enjoy the beautiful land that we all call home.

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