"Land conservation funding is a critical component of the Interior bill," said Senator Collins. "Interior appropriations for land conservation preserve wetlands, open fields, barrens and woodlands that are threatened by the ever increasing pressure of development. It also recognizes that our forests are the source of both good jobs and wonderful opportunities for sportsmen, hikers, and all who enjoy the great outdoors."
Funded Maine projects include:
* West Branch Project will receive $2.9 million in Forest Legacy funding.
* Leavitt Plantation Forest will receive $600,000 to protect 8,600 acres.
* Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge will receive $3 million to purchase critical shorebird nesting areas.
"Rachel Carson, the patron of the Wildlife refuge, once said of her substantial accomplishments, The beauty of the living world I was trying to save has always been uppermost in my mind. Now I believe I have at least helped a little."
"I think Rachel would agree that the land conservation funding in the Interior Bill we are considering is helping, piece-by-piece to preserve ‘the beauty of the living world.'"