Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07) participated in a discussion and hike with partners of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at Wildlands Conservancy’s South Mountain Preserve. The event highlighted the impact of LWCF investments on local conservation efforts in the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos.
The LWCF is a federal program that supports parks, trails, forests, and outdoor recreation spaces at various government levels. For more than 60 years, it has helped increase public access to outdoor areas, supported conservation initiatives, and contributed to the outdoor recreation economy. According to program data, the sector generates over $887 billion annually and supports 7.6 million jobs nationwide.
Mackenzie was joined by representatives from organizations including the Appalachian Mountain Club, Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, and Wildlands Conservancy. He has previously worked on bipartisan legislation as a Pennsylvania State Representative to support conservation projects such as streambank restoration in Topton.
Earlier this year during appropriations discussions for Fiscal Year 2026, Mackenzie advocated for full funding of LWCF and maintaining a balance between federal and state-level programs. He also joined other House members in urging the U.S. Department of the Interior to reverse administrative restrictions on how LWCF funds can be used and restore full implementation under the Great American Outdoors Act.
“LWCF has helped communities across the country protect natural spaces and expand outdoor recreation access, including right here in the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “It’s essential that we protect our local greenspace and create opportunities for local families to access our region’s natural beauty. I’ll continue working to ensure this program is implemented as Congress intended so that resources remain available for conservation and recreation projects in our communities.”
Pennsylvania has received about $375 million from LWCF over time, with nearly $15 million invested locally in Mackenzie’s district supporting almost 200 projects.
Mark Zakutansky, Director of Conservation Policy Engagement for the Appalachian Mountain Club, stated: “There’s no better way to understand the value of conservation than to lace up your boots and take a hike. Walking the trails of South Mountain Preserve with Congressman Mackenzie underscored how federal programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and Highlands Conservation Act protect the outdoor places where people connect with nature and with one another. Congressman Mackenzie’s strong support for conservation helps ensure those opportunities continue to grow and, I hope, will inspire all of us to help build the next generation of outdoor stewards.”
Chris Kocher, President of Wildlands Conservancy added: “Places to experience nature—like Wildlands Conservancy’s South Mountain Preserve—are part of what make the greater Lehigh Valley such a wonderful place to live, work, and play. These natural spaces strengthen our community and enhance the quality of life for everyone. Representative Mackenzie’s support for continuing and strengthening federal programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund demonstrates his understanding of just how vital these outdoor places are to our region.”
The LWCF is financed through revenues from offshore energy development rather than taxpayer dollars. It has provided funding for conservation or recreation projects in nearly every county across America.
