Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund safeguards our history and provides recreation opportunities for all Americans.
Since its inception in 1965, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) has been a key tool for adding to our nation’s collection of historic sites, historic and cultural parks, battlefields, and other public lands. It is one of America’s most important conservation and recreation programs.
For over 50 years, LWCF has safeguarded our history and provided recreation opportunities for all Americans. The Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped save places like Fort Monroe National Monument, Bandelier National Monument, Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, Chancellorsville Battlefield, and Belle Grove.
These historic, archeological, and cultural sites face threats from encroaching development or conversion to other uses. Since 2007, for example, 335 sites associated with the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 have been lost, destroyed, or fragmented. LWCF helps preserve the places that showcase our diverse history for future generations.
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Great news! On August 4, 2020, the President signed into law the Great American Outdoors Act—landmark legislation that will invest up to $9.5 billion to repair historic and other assets of the National Park Service and other federal agencies. The bill also fully funds the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million annually.
The once-in-a-generation investments from this bill will significantly benefit our nation’s historic and cultural resources by providing jobs, boosting economic activity, and preserving iconic historic places. It's an incredible win.