Massachusetts voters approved Question 6 on Nov. 3, establishing a Nature for All Fund to support land and water conservation without creating a new tax.

The measure received 61.2% support in unofficial returns reported Nov. 4 by NewsLink Live. In Newton, about 63% of voters supported it, according to The Heights.

The fund could support wetland restoration, cleaner waterways, land protection and improvements to parks and trails. Funding for individual Newton projects has not been established.

How the fund will work

The law takes effect July 1, 2027. It directs a portion of existing sales and use tax revenue from sporting goods, recreational vehicles and golf courses toward conservation, subject to legislative appropriation.

During its first year, the fund would receive 50% of eligible revenue. That share increases to 100% beginning July 1, 2028. Revenue already dedicated to specified transit and school-construction funds is excluded, according to the state’s official voter guide.

Eligible uses include protecting drinking water, restoring rivers and wetlands, conserving forests and farms, and creating or improving parks, trails and outdoor recreation access. State agencies, municipalities, qualifying conservation charities and tribal governments can receive funding.

Revenue estimates differ

Supporters estimated the measure could dedicate as much as $100 million annually to conservation. WBUR reported that experts estimate approximately $65 million a year once the fund is fully phased in.

Those figures are projections. The Legislature retains control over appropriations, so voter approval does not guarantee a particular annual funding amount.

David O’Neill, president and CEO of Mass Audubon, told GBH News that supporters would work with lawmakers to secure funding each year.

Oversight and next steps

The measure establishes a 15-member Nature for All Board comprising five state officials and 10 public members appointed by the governor. The board will establish spending regulations, while the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs administers the fund.

The law also requires annual reporting on expenditures to acquire or improve land in communities containing environmental justice populations.

Newton voters approved six of the nine statewide ballot questions, rejecting Questions 3, 5 and 8. About 58% of the city’s registered voters participated, according to The Heights, citing the city.

Election results remain unofficial pending certification.