Keep public lands public

Public lands are a part of our American identity, providing vital sustenance for fish and wildlife and for people. Do you remember your first visit to Mount Rainier? How awesome was that? How about to Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge? On my first trip to Turnbull Refuge, there were flocks of tundra swan flying over, whooping and circling in for a landing on the Pine Lakes. Even after 43 years, the image remains in my head.

You carry similar memories, hiking, birding, fishing, hunting, camping on public lands. Public lands are our lands to keep so future generations will have the same privileges we have today. The transfer of federal lands to states is not the answer. States cannot afford to manage these extensive lands. They struggle to keep state park systems open. Some state parks have already been closed. Soon these transferred federal lands would go on the auction block to profit wealthy individuals or corporations.

Join the fight to protect and defend our public lands. Write your legislators now, tell them public lands stay in public hands. They are our natural heritage and the birthright of all Americans. Visit your public lands and make new memories.

Nancy Curry

Cheney