1. United States
2. R.I.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to hold an absolute, uncompromising line regarding the protection of our public lands. As Congress considers the future of these territories, I ask that you reject any proposals to open these spaces to industrial mining or commercial timber development and, crucially, provide the full funding necessary for our federal agencies to defend them. History shows us that our public domain is a finite and shrinking treasure. From a peak of 1.8 billion acres in 1867, we have seen two-thirds of our original heritage transferred away through privatization and land grants. Today, only about 640 million acres remain in federal care. These are the "last stand" of the American wilderness, and we cannot afford to lose another acre to short-term industrial exploitation. Protection, however, requires more than just holding the line on policy; it requires a robust investment in stewardship. I am asking you to ensure that the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service are fully funded. Without adequate resources, these agencies cannot effectively manage these lands or protect them against illegal incursions, habitat degradation, and the pressures of development. While the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) of 1976 signaled a commitment to retain these lands for the national interest, that promise is hollow if the agencies tasked with their care are spread too thin. The 606 million acres managed by the BLM, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service deserve more than just "retention"—they deserve the active, well-funded management required to keep them wild for future generations. Please do not compromise. Stand firm against the industrialization of our remaining 640 million acres and provide our land management agencies with the financial strength they need to do their jobs to protect and serve the common assets of its people.