Dear Scenic Hudson Member,

No one is immune from the impacts of the economic crisis. While we must all make sacrifices, let's prioritize investments that promote prosperity and healthy lifestyles.

In response to the fiscal crisis, Gov. David Paterson has proposed a $2-billion cut in the current year's budget. We applaud his reinvigorated call for passage of the Bigger Better Bottle Bill. Unfortunately, his proposal includes a $50-million cut from the state's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) and raiding the environmental-funding Real Estate Transfer Fee.

For the best of times -- and the worst

The EPF was created to provide a stable source of environmental funding -- in good economic times and bad -- for waterfront revitalization, the Hudson River Estuary Program, acquisition of open space, and clean drinking water. The EPF has helped communities create stunning,  publicly accessible waterfront destinations while also protecting air quality and keeping our drinking water clean. The EPF keeps us green and healthy.

Tell New York State to replace the cleaver with a scalpel

The EPF is not a luxury item. We need your help to keep it intact, so we can have clean water, healthy air and more parks for everyone to enjoy. They're the backbone of the Hudson Valley's quality of life.

In fact, a recent article in the medical journal The Lancet indicated that parkland, forests and recreational fields have a profound affect on public health and health equality among income levels. The message -- environmental protection is good for our bodies and creates fairness in society.

Let's keep New York State focused on the EPF and the Hudson Valley as investments that yield high returns. Send an e-mail urging your state legislator to provide full funding for the EPF. Our lawmakers start responding to the governor's proposed budget cuts on Tuesday, Nov. 18, so please send your letters today.

Sincerely,

Ned Sullivan
President
Scenic Hudson