Proposition 68 is an investment in California’s future

Here in the Bay Area, we’re surrounded by the bounties of nature — the mountains define our region, the beauty of our beaches is world renowned and the bay provides sweeping vistas that can make even the most seasoned travelers stop short. Yet, we understand that natural resource protection is a dynamic process and one that cannot rest in the face of the increasing threats of climate change and the uncertainty of federal government support.

We’ve felt this acutely in recent years as we’ve borne witness to record-breaking periods of drought, forceful flooding, wildfires that have destroyed entire communities and the presence of districts in our state that lack access to the most basic resources like safe, clean drinking water.

At Peninsula Open Space Trust, we are grateful that Californians tend to accept that it is our responsibility to protect our unique natural resources through initiatives such as Proposition 68. It’s smart to prioritize our natural resources that can act as a buffer against increasingly severe weather events, ensure access to clean drinking water for all residents, and provide safe natural places for our kids, and all of us, to play, experience nature and thrive.

That’s why we support Proposition 68, which will be on the ballot June 5. The last time Californians chose to fund this level of natural resource protection was over 12 years ago, so it is time for us to stand up for our environment once again.

The measure was placed on the ballot by a bipartisan majority of the Legislature and was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown. It now requires final approval by California voters. Proposition 68 is supported by leaders and organizations throughout the state, such as the American Heart Association, Save the Bay, the California Chamber of Commerce, Save the Redwoods League, the League of California Cities and many more.

Proposition 68 will safeguard the natural resources that POST and our generous donors have worked to protect for over 40 years. With voter approval, the measure will invest $4 billion in the coming years to address our state’s parks, water and natural resource needs. It will make critical investments to protect against the increasing threats of floods, fires and mudslides, while also prioritizing investments in drought preparedness that will help us weather the impacts of future dry years. It will improve access to safe drinking water by funding cleanup of our water supplies and protecting our rivers and streams from further pollution.

Additionally, Proposition 68 puts the health and longevity of our local natural resources first by investing in efforts to restore the San Francisco Bay, will conserve and restore habitats and lands on the Peninsula and throughout the Bay Area, and ensure access to our open spaces, coasts, forests and other natural areas for all who live, work and visit here.

Altogether, Proposition 68 will provide the funding that is critical to safeguard and protect the things that make the Bay Area a beautiful, clean, healthy and accessible place to live.

That’s why POST has joined the bipartisan coalition of organizations and leaders throughout the state who are urging you to vote “yes” on Proposition 68 this June. A vote for Prop. 68 is a vote for a natural, vibrant and strong Bay Area and a bright future for California.

The last time Californians chose to fund this level of natural resource protection was over 12 years ago, so it is time for us to stand up for our environment once again.