WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump signed Tuesday legislation to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund among other environmental provisions affecting West Virginia, with U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., among those in attendance of the bill signing.
The John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act also designates the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area and increases the funding cap for the Wheeling National Heritage Area to open the opportunity for National Park Service grants.
The Senate passed the legislation last month in a 92-8 vote, as did the House of Representatives in a 363-62 vote. All five of West Virginia’s congressional delegates voted for the bill.
“In our state, we have been blessed with beautiful lands and our love of the outdoors is core to who we are as West Virginians. I am proud this legislation will expand access and protect these lands for future generations to enjoy,” said Manchin, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund provides support for protecting and conserving natural resources using money from offshore oil and gas work. Resources will go toward improving local parks and public spaces in 54 West Virginia counties.