The Trust For Public Land Statement On Record Year For Natural Disasters

Will Rogers, President of The Trust for Public Land, today issued the following statement on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s report today showing that natural disasters cost the U.S. a record $306 billion in 2017:

“Today’s report is incredibly alarming, yet sadly, not surprising. Importantly, these costs are often borne inequitably across vulnerable American neighborhoods. Now, more than ever, we must act to protect lives and property from devastating natural disasters that are increasing in both frequency and severity. Across the country, cities are building parks, establishing greenways, and protecting open space that address these and other challenges posed by climate change, while also enhancing the health and livability of our communities. As today’s data shows, we must act faster.”

The Trust for Public Land creates parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. Millions of people live near a Trust for Public Land park, garden, or natural area, and millions more visit these sites every year. To support The Trust for Public Land and share why nature matters to you, visit www.tpl.org.