In a strong show of support for environment, voters across the nation approved critical ballot measures funding parks and conservation in the November 2023 Election. Trust for Public Land (TPL), a stalwart advocate for conservation and equitable access to the outdoors, is delighted to announce the success of five significant conservation measures in four states, resulting in $1.2 billion in conservation and park funding.
These measures represent a collective effort to safeguard natural areas, protect wildlife habitat, mitigate wildfire risks, enhance park access, and invest in climate resilience. This year’s success at the ballot box follows the 2022 midterm election in which $8.7 billion for parks, climate, and conservation was approved by voters.
“The 2023 state and local conservation funding ballot measures supported by Trust for Public Land will pave the way for more equitable access to parks and protect air and water quality, while addressing climate change, and safeguarding crucial wildlife habitat and natural spaces in communities across the country. This victory underscores the enduring value of the outdoors to the American people and its protection and stewardship,” said Will Abberger, Director of Conservation Finance at Trust for Public Land. “In two years, TPL and our partners across the country have helped to secure over $10 billion for conservation and climate investment. It is clear this work continues to be of paramount importance to the voters.”
As a trusted leader in connecting communities to the benefits of the outdoors and advocating for equitable access to green spaces, TPL actively assisted in designing and advocating for ballot measures in Colorado, Montana, New York, South Carolina, and Texas in November 2023. Altogether, Trust for Public Land worked with local residents on nearly one-quarter of all of the parks and conservation measures on the ballot this year and one-half of the funding. These measures are crucial to ensure that park and conservation efforts receive the funding they need to thrive and protect the environment and access to nature for future generations.
“From Colorado to Texas, to Chatham, New York and Charleston, South Carolina, voters have voiced their resounding support for greater investments in conservation and parks. TPL is very proud to have supported these measures and worked to secure a ‘YES’ vote,” continued Abberger.
Since 1996, Trust for Public Land has played a pivotal role in helping state and local communities throughout the nation raise more than $94 billion in voter-approved public funds. These funds have been dedicated to land protection, the creation of parks and trails, conservation of wildlife habitat, support for working farms and ranches, safeguarding drinking water, and ensuring equitable access to green spaces and climate resiliency.
Here’s an overview of the 2023 conservation measures supported by TPL.