Congress must preserve its funding and staffing for nature
TNC statement on recent funding considerations.
Media Contacts
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Eric Bontrager
Associate Director of Communications, North America Policy
The Nature Conservancy
Phone: 703.887.0559
Email: eric.bontrager@tnc.org
The following is a statement by Kameran Onley, managing director of North American Policy and Government Relations at The Nature Conservancy, in response to recent discussions about United States government funding for projects and programs that conserve nature, take action on climate and ensure clean, reliable energy:
“The Nature Conservancy supports efforts to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal government. However, it is crucial to maintain fully functioning and funded programs that meet the needs of Americans—at home and abroad—and nature.
“Federal funding and programs for conservation, climate and clean energy provide a significant return on investment: creating jobs, cleaning our air and water, increasing outdoor recreation opportunities, lowering costs for consumers and reducing risks communities face from natural disasters. These programs are fundamental to our way of life.
“We are concerned about the potential impacts of reducing, restructuring or eliminating key federal programs. Effective governance requires well-thought-out, data-driven planning and adequate timelines for implementation.
“The effects of these changes will not only be felt at the federal level but also in Tribal, state, territory and local economies—as well as those of America’s allies—all of which rely in part on federal resources to thrive.
“Congress authorized and funded these programs to strengthen our economy, protect our health and allow us to continue enjoying nature’s bounty and beauty. It is essential that Congress ensures these funds are spent effectively and the programs function as intended.
“We will continue to advocate for these investments and the people who make them happen. We believe that nature unites us, and there are many opportunities for bipartisan progress on the challenges facing people and nature. We will continue to engage with the administration and Congress on policies to help ensure a cleaner, healthier and more prosperous future for all.”
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable. The Nature Conservancy is working to make a lasting difference around the world in 81 countries and territories (40 by direct conservation impact and 41 through partners) through a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit nature.org or follow @nature_press on X.
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