(1) Fundamental to the health and welfare of the people of Pennsylvania are the land and water resources of the State.

(2) The rapid growth of Pennsylvania's urban and suburban population requires the development of park, recreation and open space lands so that these public lands may be immediately open, available and used by the citizens of Pennsylvania.

(3) The prevention, control and elimination of stream pollution from mine drainage; the prevention, control and elimination of air pollution from burning coal refuse banks; the restoration of abandoned strip mine areas; the control and extinguishment of surface and underground fires in abandoned mines, and the alleviation and prevention of subsidence above abandoned mine operations are urgent matters requiring action by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania not only for conservation purposes but for the protection of the health and welfare of citizens of the Commonwealth, especially those living in or adjacent to affected areas.

(4) The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must act to develop and to assist local governments to develop lands that have been acquired for recreation, conservation and historical use so that the public may have access and enjoyment of these facilities at the earliest possible time.

(5) Financial assistance to political subdivisions and municipal authorities of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the construction, reconstruction and improvement of sewage treatment plants and facilities is necessary to protect the public health and to accelerate the restoration and protect the quality of the waters of the Commonwealth.

(6) The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania should utilize available Federal programs in order to augment the funds made available under the provisions of this act.