Saving LWCF means protecting Minnesota's public lands

Minnesota’s public lands are a special part of its identity. Few states have a place like the Boundary Waters, a pristine wilderness anyone can visit. That’s a rare gift.

But public lands are vital to urban Minnesotans’ everyday lives too. Here in the Cities, our parks and trails are a common space for people who can’t afford — or don’t want — a giant backyard. They house wetlands that naturally filter urban runoff. They simply make our cities feel more complete and livable. 

These lands require upkeep, though. And that's a big problem for our communities.

Thankfully, the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped fill the funding gap. It’s provided over $245 million to Minnesota’s public lands over the past 40 years. In fact, many parks near St. Cloud depend on the LWCF: Watab Creek Park in Sartell and Island View Park in Sauk Rapids, just to name a few.

Unfortunately, unless Congress acts, the LWCF will expire this month. Our representatives in D.C. must act soon to save the fund and protect the future of our public lands in Minnesota.