[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 18 (Wednesday, February 12, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S1308]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. THOMAS (for himself and Mr. Enzi):
  S. 308. A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a 
study concerning grazing use of certain land within and adjacent to 
Grand Teton National Park, WY, and to extend temporarily certain 
grazing privileges; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.


               THE GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK ACT OF 1997

 Mr. THOMAS. Mr. President, today I introduce legislation 
designed to protect open space near and around Grand Teton National 
Park. Currently, open space near the park, with its majestic, signature 
vistas and abundant wildlife, continues to decline. As the population 
grows in Teton County, WY, undeveloped land near the park becomes more 
scarce. This loss of open space negatively impacts wildlife migration 
routes in the area and diminishes the experience of visitors to the 
region. The repercussions due to the loss of open space can be felt 
throughout the entire area. As stewards, we must act now to preserve 
the view and make such a value a component of our environmental agenda.
  A few working ranches make up Teton Valley's remaining open space. 
These ranches depend on grazing in Grand Teton National Park for summer 
range to maintain their operations. The original act creating the park 
allowed several permittees to continue grazing in the area for the life 
of a designated heir in the family. Unfortunately, the last remaining 
heirs have died and their family's grazing privileges are going to be 
terminated. As a result, the open space around the park, which remains 
available due to the viability of these ranch operations, will most 
likely be subdivided and developed.
  The legislation I am introducing today is designed to help continue 
to protect open space in Teton Valley. In order to develop the best 
solution to protect open space near Teton Park, my legislation directs 
the National Park Service to conduct a 3-year study of grazing in the 
area and its impact on open space in the region. This report should 
develop workable solutions that are fiscally responsible and conscious 
of the preservation of open space. The study will be conducted by the 
National Park Service with input from citizens, local government 
officials, and the landowners in the area.
  With the approach of the spring and summer grazing season, it is 
vital for the Congress to act on this legislation as quickly as 
possible. I look forward to working with the National Park Service on 
this important matter to preserve and protect open space in Teton 
Valley. Grand Teton National Park is truly one of the treasures of our 
Nation and this legislation will help preserve this wonderful area for 
many years to come.
                                 ______