Support Land for Tomorrow

HOT LIST [from CCNC legislative advocate Mike Nelson]


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A PUBLICATION OF THE CONSERVATION COUNCIL OF NORTH CAROLINA
July 18, 2007


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Act Today on Land for Tomorrow

House Bills

H49
Outdoor Advertising Vegetation Removal Changes
(oppose)

H77
Promote Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
(support)

H332
Preservation of Farmland
(support)

Dear Legislator,

This week's Hotlist looks once more at a vital part of the environmental community's common agenda for the 2007 session -- Land for Tomorrow.

North Carolina is among the fastest-growing states in the country; current projections estimate that North Carolina's population will reach twelve million in the next twenty years, up substantially from the current level of eight million. This unprecedented population growth will bring many good things to the state, but it will also present challenges. One of the biggest concerns is sprawl. Even in traditionally rural areas of the state, rampant development can threaten farmland, historic lands, and crucial wildlife and plant habitat. We urge the General Assembly to act soon to ensure that these important lands are preserved for the future of North Carolina.

Two bills were introduced this session addressing land conservation needs -- Senate Bill 1522 and House Bill 990. Both of these are land and water conservation bonds which would set aside up to one billion dollars to protect and preserve vital farmland, habitat, and historic sites. Known generally as "Land for Tomorrow," unfortunately these bills haven't yet been acted upon.

Please act on SB1522/HB990 soon and preserve natural and historic land for North Carolina.

Sincerely,

Mike Nelson
Director of Government Relations
Conservation Council of NC
919-839-0020