[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 65 (Monday, May 20, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S4563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER'S MADISON LUMBER MILL

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, today I pay tribute 
to International Paper's Madison Lumber Mill of Madison, NH, which was 
named this year's Manufacturing Business of the Year by the New 
Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Business NH Magazine.
  As the ranking Republican member of the Senate Environment and Public 
Works Committee, I applaud Madison Lumber Mill on its outstanding 
environmental efforts. As the neighbor to 1,800 acres of conservation 
land owned by the Nature Conservancy, the mill makes extraordinary 
efforts to create a minimum impact on the environment. Through courtesy 
and a shared commitment to land conservation, the two neighbors have 
developed a solid relationship. Along with a dedication to 
conservation, the mill is constantly looking to reduce any 
environmental impact, and their environmental compliance goes above and 
beyond the requirements of the law. One of the mill's main goals is to 
operate under the principles of the Sustainable Forestry initiative 
program, which ensures the perpetual growth and harvesting of trees 
while protecting wildlife, plants, soil, air and water quality.
  I commend the dedication Madison Mill exemplifies within the 
community and surrounding areas. Not only does the mill purchase 90 
percent of its log supply from predominantly private land owners within 
a 60 mile radius of the plant, but they also require their loggers to 
complete safety training courses. Continuing a tradition of community 
service, Madison Mill annually grants $10,000 to local libraries, 
schools and civic organizations. Along with donations, the mill has 
developed a Community Advisory Council partnership to keep the lines of 
communication between the mill and local community open. One of the 
council's main goals is to facilitate community economic development 
and awareness. The 13 member council meets quarterly to discuss 
regional issues, raise concerns with the mill and discuss plans for the 
future.
  I applaud Madison Lumber Mill and their dedication to surrounding 
communities and the environment. Their environmental efforts and 
positive additions to the community exemplify why Madison Mill was this 
year's award recipient. It is an honor to represent you in the United 
States Senate.

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