WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, applauded the inclusion of full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, including $5.3 million for the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, in the President’s 2017 budget request. Over the last 50 years, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped protect and preserve public lands, parks, waterways, and wildlife habitats and provides access to outdoor recreation for millions of Americans.

“Connecticut has been a leader in preserving open space because we understand what’s at stake,” said Murphy. “The President made a bold pitch to protect our planet for our kids and grandkids. Funding for the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge is particularly important, and the support is a real testament to the advocacy of Connecticut residents who understand the value of protecting this wildlife refuge and the habitats along the Connecticut River watershed. I will be fighting in the Appropriations Committee over the coming weeks to make sure we secure this investment.”

The President’s 2017 budget request includes $900 million for conservation and recreation projects, paid for in part by revenues from offshore oil and gas drilling. For every $1 invested through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, there is an estimated return of $4 in local economic activity.  

The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge spans more than 36,000 acres throughout the Connecticut River watershed in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Last year, Murphy called for funding to support the Refuge. The President’s budget request reflects a $3.3 million increase in funding for the Refuge.