they're not making any more of it

USA Today says that federal, state, and local governments are increasing spending for open spaces and parks.

The story cites $1 billion over 5 years in the farm bill to prevent farms and ranches from being developed, $300 million a year for 10 years for the Florida Forever program, and $100 million from a newly approved 30-year sales tax to buy land in Phoenix. All of which was from the past week.

From the story:

"The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department had $15 million in cuts in its operating budget this year but will have more money than ever to acquire land. 'This proves that, even in a down market, people value open space and are willing to pay for it,' says Parks and Recreation Director Sara Hensley.