National Landscape Conservation System Background: Lands, wilderness, and open spaces have always been central to the Judeo-Christian tradition, playing a vital role in the spiritual journeys of Biblical individuals from Moses to Jesus Christ. Lands are also an essential part of Gods creation. Through the land, God nourishes life; provides the foundation of terrestrial ecosystems and human communities; supplies blessings of sustenance like soil, water, timber and minerals; and offers natural space for prayer and spiritual renewal. As a nation, we recognize and celebrate these blessings in the 623 million acres of public lands nationwide. These include our national parks and forests, wilderness and conservation areas, wildlife refuges, and other lands held in the public trust. The western United States, with its vast deserts, rugged mountains, and majestic forests and wilderness, is home to some of the best known, wildest, and most stunning examples of Gods handiwork. In June 2000, the National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS) - the most innovative American land protection system created in the last 50 years - was established to encompass the public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This new conservation system consists of more than 26 million acres, and includes: national monuments, National Conservation Areas, wilderness, Wilderness Study Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, and National and Scenic Trails.   In Congress: Currently, NLCS recieves no Congressional support and very little funding (about $2 per acre!). But, there is hope, as bills have been introduced in both the House and the Senate to officially recognize the NLCS. Track NLCS Legislation in Congress   More Information: The Conservation System Alliance The Conservation Foundation   Click here for more from the NCC on Land issues!       wilderness and faith wilderness and faith wilderness and faith wilderness and faith wilderness and faith