Bill introduced to dedicate funds to Kansas' natural resources
Jan 23, 2025
TOPEKA (KSNT) - On Thursday, Kansans for Conservation announced it had introduced a bill to direct funds to state conservation efforts.
House Bill 2063 would see the formation of a state conservation fund, a working lands conservation fund, a wildlife conservation fund and a Kansas outdoors fund. The various funds would be required to make financial reports to the governor and legislature.
"Kansans have made it clear that conservation is a priority, and now is the time to take meaningful action,” said Erika Devore, co-chair of Kansans for Conservation. “With Kansas being one of only 15 states without a dedicated conservation fund, we risk falling further behind in addressing the critical needs of our natural resources. House Bill 2063 is our opportunity to invest in the landscapes and resources that sustain our communities, economy, and way of life. We’re eager to collaborate with lawmakers to make this vision a reality."
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In collaboration with researchers at Kansas State University, Kansans for Conservation published a report "The Future of Conservation in Kansas" that found budgetary constraints, limited staffing and restricted funding streams are barriers to conservation in Kansas.
"However, despite these constraints, agencies and organizations in Kansas have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, employing creative approaches to maximize their impact," the report found in its conclusions and implications. "This ingenuity has enabled them to sustain essential services and programs, though the capacity to scale up efforts remains contingent on increased financial and human resources."
HB 2063 is expected to be referred to the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Budget Committee and could be heard in early February. You can read the full report by clicking here.
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