Monday, Apr 15 2013 4:30PM

The President is requesting an increase in funding for the DOI for 2014.

President Barack Obama submitted a request of $11.9 billion for the Department of the Interior's (DOI) 2014 budget, which will enable it to continue providing funding for job creation, conservation efforts, domestic energy development and assistance to Native American and Alaskan Native communities. 

The proposed budget is a 5 percent increase compared to the 2012 enacted level. The agency notes that DOI programs not only help cultivate several energy, wildlife and conservation programs, but also contribute to the national economy. The DOI contributed $385 billion in 2011, and the agency said its programs generate more revenue for the American people than the agency's annual appropriation. 

"The President's budget sustains support for Interior's core missions, underscoring the pivotal role that this Department plays as a driver of economic activity, especially for rural areas," said DOI Secretary Ken Salazar. "We protect the public lands, water and wildlife that power local economies, drive tourism and define us as a people, while ensuring the responsible development of energy and mineral resources that strengthen our nation's security."

DOI programs provide a great deal of funding for several purposes, including maintaining access to water system services for several groups, such as Native Americans. Recently, the DOI was instrumental in helping cement a water settlement agreement with tribes that will ensure sustainable access to water for members for several decades. 

For more information, check out this resource: The Department of the Interior