The preservation of recreational and open spaces is essential to a healthy Texas. Unfortunately, recent actions by Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson have violated the public trust and highlighted the need to reverse years of Republican neglect of our state parks and public lands. We must provide adequate funding for the upkeep, maintenance and acquisition of state park land. We must also reward those who voluntarily protect endangered species on their lands through Safe Harbor Agreements and similar measures, and we support open space acquisition to protect Texas aquifers and watersheds that provide sole source drinking water for millions of Texans. We support strong enforcement of laws that provide full public access and restoration of public lands, parks, beaches, and waters.