By Jamie Martin
The Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Interior announced a proposed investment of $2.8 billion in fiscal year 2025 through the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) to protect public lands and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) schools.
The funding will address overdue maintenance needs in national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and recreation areas. It will also support critical infrastructure projects in BIE-funded schools.
GAOA LRF provides up to $1.9 billion per year for these projects, while the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) receives $900 million annually to secure public access, improve recreation opportunities, and protect ecosystems.
These investments are part of the President's agenda to strengthen infrastructure and support equitable access to the outdoors. They also contribute to the America the Beautiful initiative, which aims to conserve 30% of US lands and waters by 2030.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National