COVINGTON, Ga. - Georgia’s economy and quality of life are directly tied to both the water quality of our rivers, lakes and streams and the availability and beauty of our outdoor spaces, wildlife habitats and parks.
This fall, we have a historic opportunity to pass the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Amendment and protect our waters and lands by constitutionally dedicating a portion of the existing sales tax on outdoor sporting goods without raising any taxes or creating new fees.
If passed, this funding would
- Protect lands critical to clean drinking water and the quality of Georgia’s lakes, rivers and streams
- Acquire and improve parks and trails for children, families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy in communities throughout the state
- Maintain and improve access to wildlife management areas and create new opportunities for hunting and fishing
- Support Georgia’s $27 billion outdoor recreation industry and the jobs it and the other economic sectors that rely upon access to land and water create
If passed, the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Amendment would dedicate up to 80% of the existing sales and use tax on outdoor sporting goods to the protection of the state’s lands, water, and wildlife without raising or creating any new taxes or fees.
Over $20 million would be dedicated every year for the next ten years. This funding could not be used for any other purpose and would be subject to strict accountability provisions and public disclosure. Only projects consistent with the state’s established goals for conservation would be approved.
Georgia Wildlife Federation is a partner in the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Coalition, a group of leading conservation organizations working to educate the public on this historic opportunity. Other partners include the The Conservation Fund, Georgia Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Park Pride, and The Trust for Public Land. For more information on the Georgia Outdoor Stewarship Act, visit www.gwf.org.
