Support for increasing nature-related programs
Three-quarters of American adults agree we need to increase the number of programs available for Americans to enjoy nature, the outdoors, and wildlife.
Question: "In your opinion, do we need to increase the number of programs available for Americans to enjoy nature, the outdoors, and wildlife?"
N=5,550 | Adults 18+
Three-quarters of adults surveyed agree we need to increase the number of programs available for Americans to enjoy nature, the outdoors, and wildlife.
Perceptions of funding
More than half of American adults think programs for Americans to enjoy nature and wildlife are underfunded.
Question: "In your opinion, are programs for Americans to enjoy nature and wildlife underfunded, adequately funded, or over-funded?"
N=5,550 | Adults 18+
One-half of adults think current recreation-oriented conservation programs are underfunded. Only 3% perceive them to be overfunded.
Strongest supporters
The highest levels of support for increasing nature-related programs and funding came from Hispanics, younger adults, higher-income adults, and urban residents. Dissatisfaction with one’s community aligned closely with perceptions of funding and spending. Adults who were dissatisfied with the place where they live were highly likely to perceive nature-related programs as underfunded and to support increasing them.
Sources of funding
Several funding sources (including fines for environmental polluting, hunting and fishing license fees, and tax revenues) garner wide support from Americans.
Question: "Which funding sources do you think should help pay the cost of activities related to nature and wildlife?"
N=5,550 | Adults 18+
Adults surveyed were most supportive of using funding sources derived from fines for environmental pollution, license fees on hunting and fishing, partnerships with private sector organizations, dedicated portions of general state and federal tax revenues, and a charge on oil and gas development.