While we avoided a government shutdown this year, it’s extremely disappointing that Congress let the Land and Water Conservation Fund sunset after 50 years of significant achievements. Colorado Sens. Michael Bennet, D, and Cory Gardner, R, tried to prevent its end, but to no avail.

The LWCF uses revenue from offshore oil leases – not taxes – for everything from fishing and public access sites and trails to easements and parks. How could this program, that doesn’t use tax payer money and has broad bipartisan and citizen support not make it into the Continuing Resolution?

The LWCF sunset will negatively affect all Coloradans and all Americans who fish, hunt, camp and recreate on our magnificent public lands. In Colorado, the LWCF has been critical for securing access for hunting, fishing and camping, as well as providing pools, playgrounds and ball fields for our communities. Over 42,000 parks, playgrounds and trails have been funded by LWCF in all 50 states and 98 percent of U.S. counties. These investments return $4 for every $1 spent through the $600 billion outdoor recreation economy.

It’s time for Congress to follow our Colorado senators’ leadership and step up to permanently authorize the LWCF on behalf of all Americans.

Deborah Gangloff Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

Cortez