[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 147 (Thursday, November 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2001]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO DONALD AND FLORINE MEINHART

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 13, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration that I rise to 
pay tribute to Donald and Florine Meinhart of Glade Park, Colorado. 
Today, I would like to highlight the Meinharts for the wonderful 
contribution they have made toward protecting Colorado's most treasured 
natural resource: our environment.
  The Meinhart Ranch is located in an area that is highly regarded for 
its ecological importance. By recently agreeing to an easement, Donald 
and Florine have promised to restrict development on their ranch, which 
will help protect the natural habitat of an area that is home to many 
of Colorado's wildlife species, including the Gunnison Sage Grouse, 
elk, and mule deer. The Gunnison Sage Grouse has become so rare in 
recent years that the US Fish and Wildlife Service has considered 
placing the animal on the endangered species list. By agreeing to an 
easement on their ranch, Donald and Florine are helping to guard the 
sage grouse's natural habitat and ensure the protection of the species.
  The Meinhart Ranch also provides a popular migration corridor for elk 
and mule deer. The ranch is surrounded by national forests and provides 
an avenue for the animals to move between their summer and winter 
grazing areas. The easement will benefit these species as well because 
it provides them with an open place to move, protected from encroaching 
homes and motor vehicles.
  Mr. Speaker, it with great respect that I recognize Donald and 
Florine Meinhart before this body of Congress and this nation for the 
generous and responsible management of their property. Donald and 
Florine have agreed to protect their property from future development 
and ensure that their land remains free and open. I commend them both 
on their decision and wish the Meinhart ranch a rich and happy future.

                          ____________________