Cuts to wildlife programs

We all realize that it is time for our country to make some tough decisions. However, we do not need to be cutting programs that our already fragile economy depends on. Investing in the conservation of our land, our water and our wildlife makes sense.

Last year, money allotted to these programs made up only 1.26 percent of the federal budget. Unfortunately, conservation is receiving disproportionate cuts by our Congress. These are programs that we all enjoy or depend on, especially those who live in rural communities across the country.

Programs like the State Wildlife Grants program provide federal funding that is matched by partners to hire local contractors for on-the-ground habitat work that benefits wildlife and people. Last year, State Wildlife Grants helped hire conservation contractors in the St. Francois Mountains (near Ironton) to construct and rehabilitate fire lines (some of which serve a dual purpose as hiking trails); assist with glade and woodland prescribed burns; and thin woody invasive species from glades.

As an outdoor organization, many of our members have gained great enjoyment from the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. I know our visits provide an important source of income to the local economy. Across our country, federal investment in public lands supports 6.5 million U.S. jobs.

Not only does conservation secure our access to land and clean water, but for every dollar invested, $2.75 is contributed to the economy. That is a return of 275 percent. That is real money we are talking about and real jobs for Americans.

DAVE MURPHY, executive director,

Conservation Federation of Missouri, Jefferson City, Mo.