The Nature Conservancy’s Statement on the U.S. President’s Proposed Budget

The following is a statement by Kameran Onley, managing director of North American Policy and Government Relations at The Nature Conservancy, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget:

“The president’s budget is his proposal for investing in America's future. It details the investments he wants the government to make to fulfill its responsibilities to the public, including caring for the country’s lands, air, water and wildlife. The American people expect the federal government to fulfill these responsibilities.

“His proposed cuts to funding and government functions critical to conserving nature, ensuring clean, reliable energy and combating climate change put that future in doubt. 

“We all rely on federal government agencies to do the work that helps keep our air and water clean, our communities rebuilt and stronger after disasters, our food safe and bountiful and our outdoor spaces—both public and private—there for future generations. Investments like restoring forests and wetlands, preserving critical habitats and advancing technological innovation create jobs and drive local economies. 

“These investments are also critical at the state level, given that many state agencies have a hybrid funding model that mixes state and federal money. To cut federal resources would not only limit work at the federal level, but it would also make it harder for states to implement on-the-ground, locally driven solutions to challenges facing people and nature.

“The American people recognize the value of these investments, with 77% of voters saying that, even with federal budget challenges, funding to safeguard our lands, air and water should not be cut. Sixty percent of voters want their members of Congress to do more to help conserve land, water and wildlife habitat. Congress must stand on the side of the American people and the park rangers, scientists, firefighters and so many others who make this work a reality.

“With the appropriations process underway and a federal budget deadline just months off, it’s time for Congress to preserve and expand on these investments. There are many areas in which Congress can make cost-effective, bipartisan choices that will not only improve the health of our natural world but also make communities safer, create jobs and strengthen our economy. We’ll continue to engage with Congress and the administration to create a more livable world for all.”