Mountains to Sound Greenway sounds the alarm on federal budget cuts

The Biden Administration has proposed significant budget cuts for 2026 that could severely impact the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area and public lands across the country. If enacted, these cuts threaten decades of conservation progress, jeopardizing public access to critical natural resources. The Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust, which oversees a 1. 5-million-acre area from Seattle to Ellensburg, warns that these reductions could eliminate essential funding for various environmental initiatives. "Congress can stop this—but only if they hear from you," the Trust states, emphasizing the importance of public advocacy.

The organization leads efforts to restore natural lands, maintain sustainable trails, and empower future environmental leaders. Local residents are urged to contact their representatives to express their concerns about these proposed cuts. The proposed budget underscores a significant shift in federal priorities regarding conservation and public lands. Advocates stress that protecting these programs is vital for the region's ecological health and cultural heritage.