June 22, 2026
Dear Senators,
On behalf of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), I am writing to express our opposition to Senate Bill 857 (P.N. 958). This legislation, which would mandate county government approval for any land acquisitions by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Fish and Boat Commission, and Game Commission, may receive floor consideration this week.
As an organization that works with communities on conservation and recreation throughout the Commonwealth, we have seen firsthand how public lands have served as a catalyst for local renewal and economic development. As of 2024, Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation economy generated $20.4 billion in annual economic impact. The industry accounts for 2% of the Commonwealth’s GDP, supports more than 177,000 jobs, and forms a key part of the state’s broader economic development strategy.
Public lands are a cornerstone of our state heritage and provide vital public recreation and health benefits to citizens of all abilities and interests. At a time when costs are escalating and people are forced to curtail travel and vacation plans, having readily available public amenities in our state is invaluable. At all levels, polling shows overwhelming public – and bipartisan – support for conservation and public lands.
Senate Bill 857 also limits private landowners from having the choice to donate or convey their lands for future public benefit and could have been used to block the recent extraordinary donation of our newest state park – Laurel Caverns State Park. It impedes only conservation, hunting, fishing, and recreation focused agencies with this new approval process. The legislation also ignores the fact that there are existing means, including payment in lieu of tax programs, to help support local governments.
For these reasons, we respectfully ask that you oppose this legislation if it is brought up for a floor vote. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John Walliser
Senior VP, Legal & Government Affairs
Pennsylvania Environmental Council