The Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) has been an invaluable source of funding for parks, protected areas, public lands, playgrounds, pools, ball fields and historic sites in Pennsylvania and across the nation.

The LWCF is funded through a portion of the revenues the U.S. receives from offshore drilling. There are no taxpayer dollars in the fund, but Congress has still seen fit to divert often substantial portions of the money authorized in the fund.

Pennsylvania has received over $315 million from the LWCF. These projects range from iconic sites such as the Flight 93 National Memorial and the Appalachian Trail, to countless state and local parks, playgrounds and local recreation facilities.

To see lands and facilities in Pennsylvania protected or assisted by LWCF, click here for an interactive map and use "LWCF Projects in PA" in the legend.

Unfortunately, the LWCF lapsed because Congress failed to renew the fund by September 30. It is therefore urgent that PRPS members and friends contact their federal lawmakers on this issue. Congress is now in lame duck session with a continuing budget resolution due to expire on December 7.

Please personalize a letter to your Member of Congress and U.S. Senators to permanently reauthorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund.