WASHINGTON, DC – The Trump administration’s official budget request for fiscal year 2026, released Friday, includes devastating cuts to multiple programs that are critical to nationwide conservation efforts and efforts to get children, youth, and families outdoors.
Among the targeted programs are the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which funds conservation and recreation projects on federal, state and local levels, jeopardizing our National Parks, forests, and wildlife and recreation areas. Youth grant programs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Bureau of Land Management are also being cut, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency’s environmental education and justice programs.
In response, Outdoors Alliance for Kids (OAK) members released the following statements:
“These budget cuts are going to be felt by kids, families, and small communities across the country,” said Julia Hurwit, OAK campaign manager. “Many of the impacted projects and programs have been providing youth with the opportunities to engage with the outdoors, stay active outside, and develop relationships with nature. It is disappointing to see them be put on the chopping block, especially right at the start of summer when kids and families will be spending the most time enjoying the outdoors.”
“This budget proposal would eliminate vital science and technology-related education programs, food lifelines and afterschool programming, and many opportunities to be outdoors which provides benefits to learning and mental health. Given the increase in natural disasters and the level of challenges youth are facing, now is the time to invest in their wellbeing, health, and surrounding environment. We call on Congress to do the right thing and put a stop to these detrimental cuts,” said David Beard, Children & Nature Network Director of Policy & Government Affairs.
“We are disappointed by proposed cuts to critical and beloved grant programs that give youth opportunities to learn and play outdoors in their communities and school grounds and on public lands,” said Sarah Bodor, NAAEE Senior Director of Capacity Building. “Hands-on, outdoor learning opportunities help kids gain important knowledge and skills, spark curiosity and caring, and contribute to their overall health and well-being. We urge Congress to continue to fund education grant programs and provide access to America’s public lands.”
“KABOOM! urges Congress to restore funds to the various federal agencies and programs that are vital to supporting children’s ability to engage with nature and outdoor recreation,” said Tamara Grider Harris, KABOOM! Vice President of Marketing and Communications. “Not only do these programs help kids lead happier and healthier lives, provide engaging alternatives to time spent on electronic devices, and encourage better academic outcomes; they are also significant economic engines for their communities. The affected offices and programs are vital to preserving Americans’ quality of life and we hope you will maintain the funding they need to perform their critical mission.”
Contact: Natasha Blakely, natasha.blakely@sierraclub.org
About the Outdoors Alliance for Kids (OAK)
OAK is a national strategic partnership of organizations from diverse sectors with a common interest in connecting children, youth, and families with the outdoors. The members of OAK are brought together by the belief that the wellness of current and future generations, the health of our planet and communities and the economy of the future depend on humans having a personal, direct, and life-long relationship with nature and the outdoors. OAK brings together more than 100 businesses and organizations to address the growing divide between children, youth, and the outdoors. http://www.outdoorsallianceforkids.org
