Governor Ricketts To Host Opposition Conference Against Biden Conservation Plans

April 20, 2022, 2:18 p.m. ·

resize7.jpg
Gracie Creek Ranch near Burwell, Neb. is the largest conservation easement in state history. (Photo by Hilary Stohs-Krause, NET News)

This Earth Day, Governor Pete Ricketts will host the “Stop the 30x30 Summit” at the Graduate Hotel in Lincoln. The conference, on Friday April 22, will gather opposition from around the country to the Biden Administration’s “30x30” or “America the Beautiful” plan.

The plan initially began as an executive order President Biden signed in his first week of office that sets the goal of conserving 30% of the nation’s water and land by the year 2030.

Ricketts is one of the most vocal opponents of the administration’s plans. Last year he spent time building opposition to the effort among Nebraska landowners, calling it a “land grab”. His efforts culminated in the signing of an executive order that, among other things, placed an 18-month hold on approving any new regulations expanding the definition of endangered species, plants, or wildlife.

Scheduled speakers include Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert and the Trump Administration’s Secretary of the Department of the Interior, David Bernhardt.

Biden Administration Officials - as well as language in the text of the plan - make clear that conservation programs involving private-land owners are voluntary.