Colorado Wilderness Act of 2021

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment to H.R. 803.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen the renewed importance of having safe and accessible public lands for our families and communities. As a proud Virginian, I know that Virginia's public lands not only provide opportunities for recreation and reflection but they are key to our tourism industry and our overall economy.

My amendment would strengthen protections for two beautiful areas of the George Washington National Forest, the Rough Mountain and Rich Hole wilderness areas, following recommendations from the U.S. Forest Service in 2014. These areas offer outstanding scenic views, rare and endangered plants, age-old hardwood forests, and a dense population of black bears.

This legislation, the Virginia Wilderness Additions Act, would allow these irreplaceable areas to remain open to recreation while also protecting their wildlife, natural resources, and trails for generations to come.

I would like to thank Senators Kaine and Warner for their leadership on this issue in the Senate, as well as Representatives Luria and McEachin for working with me on this important amendment.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source