The Importance of Public Lands

Dear Editor,

In a wildly, unpredictable year there has been one consistent, unsung hero citizens have rallied toward - our public lands. From city parks to conservation areas, from state parks to federal lands, citizens have taken refuge in these spaces to rejuvenate, move and find solace in fresh air and nature. Public lands are playing the largest role they have in generations, highlighting the importance of protecting and caring for our public trust resources.

Last month the U.S. Senate reconfirmed the vital role of public land by passing, with bi-partisan support seldom seen in recent times, the Great American Outdoors Act, co-sponsored by Missouri Senator Roy Blunt. This critical legislation will provide $9.5 billion for maintenance, deferred for decades, in our national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, historic sites and more. The act also mandates full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund at $900 million a year from energy drilling and mining royalties.

This fund was the catalyst that stimulated acquisition and development of many of our city, county and state parks in the 1970s.

The current pandemic underscores the need for ready access to places close to home and emphasizes the importance of the Great American Outdoors Act. It is important to take every chance you can to utilize and support your community park departments and our state park system and conservation areas. As a citizen that utilizes these park services, say thank you when possible to those that care for and maintain these resources and make sure you do your part to help with the preservation, care and maintenance of public lands. These resources are not a luxury but a vital element in the physical and mental health of our citizens.

Kelley Brent

Poplar Bluff

Board member,

Missouri Parks Association