SUN JOURNAL • December 20, 2020
Maine has tremendous wealth in nature: 4.2% of our gross domestic product comes from outdoor recreation. From 2018 to 2019, outdoor recreation employment in Maine grew faster than the U.S. average and supported over 40,000 jobs. We are fortunate that about 21% of land in Maine is already conserved. By 2030, it would not be a stretch to protect 30% of the state’s natural and working lands, which climate experts suggest is needed. 30×30 is a science-based decision-making goal to protect 30% of U.S. lands and waters by the year 2030, and is a fundamental goal in President-Elect Joe Biden’s climate plan. Protecting “30×30” is achievable with a bond to revitalize the Land for Maine’s Future program (LMF), the state’s signature land conservation program. ~ Steve Wight, Newry