PRESS RELEASE
August 10, 2020
Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 5, 2020 – Timucuan Parks Foundation is excited about the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act and for what it will do for national parks. The bill, signed this week by President Donald Trump, is designed to fund maintenance projects for the National Park Service as well as the Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Indian Education. It also will permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund to address the backlog of recreation and conservation needs across the country.
“The Great American Outdoors Act is an overdue recognition that the National Parks, America’s best idea, need funding to sustain our special places,” said Mark Middlebrook, executive director of the Timucuan Parks Foundation. “It’s an important investment into our history, environment and culture that will provide a significant return for future generations.”
The Great American Outdoors Act was introduced by Colorado Senator Cory Gardner and passed the Senate with bipartisan support in June. The House supported the measure without amendment on July 22. The bill establishes the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund which will be funded through federal revenues from the development of oil, gas, coal, or alternative or renewable energy on federal lands and waters.
“The Great American Outdoors Act will provide $6.65B to address deferred maintenance priorities at the National Park Service over five years,” said NPS Superintendent Chris Hughes. “The funds will help complete infrastructure projects, expand recreational opportunities, support local economies and help ensure parks are protected and preserved for future generations. Specific projects that will be funded will be announced in the future.”
About Timucuan Parks Foundation
The Timucuan Parks Foundation is a nonprofit organization that preserves, promotes and enhances Jacksonville’s natural areas through community engagement, education and enjoyment. The foundation originated in 1999 with the Preservation Project Jacksonville, Inc. to identify and assist in acquiring the most vulnerable and environmentally sensitive lands in Duval County. The acquisition of lands created the largest urban park system in the United States. The Timucuan Parks Foundation works with its park partners, including the National Park Service, Florida State Parks and the City of Jacksonville, to promote environmental stewardship, the health benefits of the parks and preserves, and an appreciation for Jacksonville’s special outdoor spaces. For more information, visit timucuanparks.org.