PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • March 31, 2021
Among President Biden’s most visionary goals is conserving 30 percent of America’s lands and waters by the year 2030. Why is saving our lands and waters so urgent? First is the need to store carbon pollution, which forests, soils and coastal ecosystems do with great efficiency. Next is the imperative to protect Earth’s biodiversity. Fortunately, we have the tools to act swiftly and effectively. Since 1987 the Land for Maine’s Future program has helped protect more than 600,000 acres all across the state, safeguarding critical wildlife habitat and ensuring permanent public access. Today LMF is virtually out of funds. Let’s bring much-needed federal Land and Water Conservation funds to Maine, invest in our local communities, improve our quality of life, protect our healthy ecosystems, support our forestry, agriculture, marine and tourism industries and advance the well-being of all Mainers. Let’s pass a bond to reinvest in LMF and our state parks. ~ Richard Barringer, former Maine commissioner of conservation and emeritus professor at USM, and Jerry King, vice chair, Maine Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club