PERC top 10 conservation recommendations to Interior Dept to cut ‘green tape’

The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC), a leading conservation group based in Montana, is set to release its top 10 recommendations for the Department of the Interior to reduce “green tape” and streamline the agency’s work. Unlike “red tape,” which typically refers to bureaucratic regulations, “green tape” focuses on simplifying processes to promote conservation efforts.

PERC’s CEO, Brian Yablonski, emphasized the urgent need to address the $23 billion backlog in national parks’ infrastructure needs, conservation projects, and wastewater management. As national parks continue to attract record numbers of visitors, the Interior Department must find sustainable ways to fund these increased demands without overburdening taxpayers or imposing restrictions.

One of PERC’s key recommendations is to triple the rate of endangered species’ recovery by implementing market-based solutions. Yablonski highlighted the need to shift from regulatory approaches to incentive-based tools to facilitate species recovery. Currently, only 3% of endangered species have been successfully recovered and removed from the list, while 99% remain at risk.

Additionally, PERC aims to double fee revenues for national parks without solely relying on visitor contributions. Yablonski explained that increasing fee revenue does not necessarily mean raising fees for visitors. Instead, the organization suggests implementing surcharges for international visitors who do not pay baseline taxes for park conservation. This approach aims to distribute funding more equitably while depoliticizing park financing.

Furthermore, PERC advocates for eliminating regulations that hinder Americans’ voluntary efforts to engage in habitat restoration and conservation projects. Streamlining the approval process for landowners who wish to contribute to conservation initiatives is crucial to cutting “green tape” and encouraging proactive environmental stewardship.

To address these challenges, PERC’s recommendations will be outlined in a comprehensive report available on their website. The organization’s proactive approach aligns with its commitment to promoting collaboration and market-based solutions for conservation.

As national parks continue to face growing demands and funding gaps, PERC’s recommendations offer a strategic roadmap for the Interior Department to navigate these challenges effectively. By prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and sustainable funding mechanisms, the agency can enhance conservation efforts and ensure the long-term preservation of America’s natural treasures.