[Congressional Bills 109th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 309 Engrossed in House (EH)]


H. Res. 309

                 In the House of Representatives, U.S.,

                                                          June 9, 2005.
Whereas on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone was established as the world's first 
        national park;
Whereas Yellowstone National Park encompasses over 2 million acres and is one of 
        America's Crown Jewels of the National Park System;
Whereas over 2.8 million people visit Yellowstone National Park annually to 
        admire its world famous geysers, hot springs, and remarkable wildlife, 
        and to hike its more than 950 miles of backcountry trails;
Whereas on May 16-17, 2005, a major mudslide bisected the scenic Beartooth 
        Highway in 6 sections requiring visitors from Montana to undertake a 
        detour to the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park;
Whereas the scenic Beartooth Highway provides on average 190,000 visitors 
        annually easy access to the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National 
        Park;
Whereas the scenic Beartooth Highway has been recognized as one of the most 
        scenic drives in the United States; and
Whereas the scenic Beartooth Highway is the economic artery for the citizens of 
        the gateway communities of Red Lodge, Cooke City, and Silver Gate, 
        Montana: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
            (1) recognizes the critical importance of ensuring unfettered access 
        to visitors of Yellowstone National Park and preserving the economy of 
        Red Lodge, Montana; and
            (2) urges the President to take, without hesitation, all necessary 
        actions to assist the Governor of Montana in reopening, as quickly as 
        possible, the scenic Beartooth Highway that provides access to 
        Yellowstone National Park.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.