From 1998 through 2005, 3.4 million acres of land were conserved in the West region; by both states and the federal government. The state acquired approximately 45 percent of the total. Almost 86 percent of these lands were purchased in fee title, while the remainder was protected through conservation easements. The West region state government expended over $3.1 billion in this time period for land conservation (80 percent of total expenditures), while the federal government spent $792 million. In other words, on an annual basis, the states spent an average of $384 million to conserve lands (at an average cost of about $2,000 an acre) while the federal government expended an average of $99 million a year (at an average cost of $414 per acre).
Voters throughout the country strongly support conservation finance ballot measures in order to protect natural lands, preserve ranches and farms, and create parks. To view conservation finance ballot measures in this region and throughout the country visit LandVote.
Art Wolfe, AK
