[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 93 (Monday, June 23, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8360-S8362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. HOLLINGS:
  S. 1313. A bill to establish the Congaree Swamp National Park in the 
State of South Carolina, and for other purposes; to the Committee on 
Energy and Natural Resources.
  Mr. HOLLINGS. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation that 
is particularly important to me, in that it culminates nearly 30 years 
of efforts to preserve the wilderness of South Carolina for future 
generations of Americans. This legislation proposes to raise the 
designation of the Congaree Swamp National Monument to the Congaree 
National Park, and to increase its size by 20 percent.
  I still remember when my friend, Harry Hampton, enlisted my help to 
protect the big trees that were being destroyed 500 acres a year in the 
central part of my State. In 1976, Congress set aside 15,000 acres to 
establish the Congaree Swamp National Monument. In the late 1980s, we 
expanded it by another 7,000 acres. More recently, we've invested in a 
visitor center and this investment has far exceeded this Senator's 
expectations.
  The attendance has ballooned to 120,000 visitors every year, 
including some 12,000 students, who use the forest as their classroom 
to nature. It has awakened an interest in the environment for these 
children. They cruise the Congaree, learning how to identify trees, 
birds, animals, and everything like that. All kinds of groups take 
hikes, nature walks and canoe trips to see the almost 1,000 different 
types of trees, plants, animals, and birds in the forest.
  This is home to some of the tallest and rarest trees in the Eastern 
United States--some are 400 years old. It is home to the largest 
example of old growth southern hardwood forest in North America. All 
eight species of woodpeckers can be found here, including the 
endangered red-cockaded variety.
  Yet had Congress not acted back in 1976, none of this may be around 
today. We were able to save at least a few thousand acres of what once 
covered vast portions of the east coast, so future generations of 
Americans can enjoy it. There is a lesson here. The Government can do 
good for the environment. It is in the interest of our nation to 
protect our nation's treasures.
  My legislation, the Congaree National Park Act of 2003 continues the 
progress we have seen the last 25 years. It would add another 4,576 
acres of ecologically rich land; and it would redesignate the Monument 
into a fullfledged National Park, which would be the first in South 
Carolina. The Congaree Swamp is widely recognized as one of the most 
unique and rare ecological habitats in the country. This designation 
not only recognizes the significance of this area but the wonderful job 
the National Park Service is doing to make this a growing attraction 
for local, State, national, and international visitors.
  The project has received support from a number of organizations, and 
I ask unanimous consent that these letters of endorsement be printed in 
the Record. I hope to work on a bipartisan basis with my colleagues to 
pass the legislation this session.
  There being no objection, the letters were ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

                                      South Carolina Department of


                                            Natural Resources,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 23, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest F. Hollings,
     U.S. Senator, Russell Office Building,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: I want to take this opportunity to 
     endorse the proposed legislation to establish the Congaree 
     Swamp National Park in the State of South Carolina (Congaree 
     National Park Act of 2003). We are delighted to see your 
     continued commitment to the protection of important 
     environmental properties in our State. The expansion of the 
     Congaree National Monument to a ``National Park'' certainly 
     continues the habitat protection vision that is embraced by 
     the Board of the South Carolina Department of Natural 
     Resources.
       I have been in routine contact with your staff and many of 
     our natural resource conservation partners as this important 
     legislation was developed by your staff. We appreciate your 
     staff's professional courtesy to us in seeking our agency's 
     input. The expansion of this significant natural resource 
     area certainly parallels the stated mission of our agency in 
     proactively protecting the State's natural resources for the 
     use and enjoyment by future generations of South Carolians.
       Again, thank you for your commitment to our natural 
     resources and to improving the quality of life of our 
     citizens. You have been a strong supporter of our 
     conservation initiatives and our citizens are certainly 
     indebted to you for your leadership and vision.
           Sincerely,
                                                 John E. Frampton,
     Director.
                                  ____



                                    The Trust for Public Land,

                                    Washington, DC, June 23, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest F. Hollings,
     U.S. Senate, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: I am writing today on behalf of The 
     Trust for Public Land in support of legislation to expand the 
     boundaries of the Congaree Swamp National Monument and 
     designate it as a National Park in the State of South 
     Carolina.
       As you know, the Congaree Swamp National Monument was 
     authorized as a unit of the National Park Service in 1976. 
     The park rests on a floodplain of the Congaree River and is 
     recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve, National 
     Natural Landmark, Wilderness Area, and ``Globally Important 
     Bird Area,'' with over 90 tree species including old growth 
     loblolly pines and bald cypress. The Congaree hosts the 
     nation's largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood 
     forest, and contains some of the tallest trees in the eastern 
     U.S., with some pines reaching over 160 feet. The Congaree's 
     outstanding natural resources are frequented by outdoor 
     enthusiasts who enjoy canoeing, kayaking, picnicking, 
     camping, and fishing.
       In 1994, the expansion area was the subject of a biological 
     and hydrological evaluation to determine its resource value 
     for protection and addition to the Congaree Swamp National 
     Monument. The report concluded that expanding the National 
     Monument to include this area would conserve a unique 
     hydrological system integrally connected to the hydrology of 
     the Congaree River and that of lands currently within the 
     Congaree Swamp National Monument. Once protected, these lands 
     would from a conservation corridor connecting the Congaree 
     with other protected state and Federal lands further 
     downstream.
       Additional protection of the Congaree Swamp National 
     Monument would not only play a critical role in enhancing 
     South Carolina's recreation needs, it would further enrich 
     South Carolina's impressive historic and cultural resources 
     as well as its significant wildlife and ecological resources.
       The Trust for Public Land commends your leadership on this 
     matter and looks forward to working with you on enacting such 
     legislation.
           Sincerely,
                                                       Alan Front,
     Senior Vice President.
                                  ____



                                     Columbia Audubon Society,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 23, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest F. Hollings,
     Russell Senate Office Building,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings; I am writing to you on behalf of the 
     700+ members of Columbia Audubon Society. We want to express 
     our full support for your legislation to change the Congaree 
     Swamp National Monument to National Park and to expand the 
     boundary.
       No other area in the Southeast is of comparable geological 
     and biological significance. The park has been recognized as 
     a National Natural Landmark, an International Biosphere, 
     Globally Important Bird Area, and a Wetlands of International 
     Importance. Anything that can be done to raise awareness of 
     this important resource and to protect it by boundary 
     expansion is a positive step that we support.
       Thank you once again for your efforts on behalf of our 
     natural and national heritage.
           Sincerely,
                                                Daniel L. Tufford,
     President and Conservation Chair.
                                  ____

                                                      Sierra Club,


                                       South Carolina Chapter,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 22, 2003.
     Re Congaree Swamp National Monument.

     Senator Ernest Hollings,
     Russell Senate Office Building,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: The South Carolina Chapter of the 
     Sierra Club supports your legislation to expand and 
     reclassify the Congaree Swamp National Monument. We thank you 
     for your preservation efforts regarding the Congaree Swamp 
     and for your support of the environment generally.
       The Congaree Swamp National Monument on the meandering 
     Congaree River is a tranquil setting of world champion trees, 
     primeval forest landscapes, and diverse plant and animal 
     life. This 21,479-acre intact old-growth bottomland hardwood 
     forest is a remnant of what much of the Southeast looked like 
     200-plus years ago. The opportunity to add 4,526-acres to 
     this living ecological museum cannot be ignored.
       We also believe that Congaree Swamp is more appropriately 
     identified as a national ``park.'' This designation, within 
     the Park Service, will accord the ``swamp'' its appropriate 
     status and possible funding within the Department of 
     Interior.

[[Page S8361]]

       The South Carolina Chapter of the Sierra Club was formed 25 
     years ago as a result of citizen involvement to form the 
     Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976. Our Sierra Club 
     chapter could receive no better gift on our 25th birthday 
     than the expansion and redesignation of this sanctuary for 
     plants, animals, researchers, and hikers.
       On behalf of the 5,200 Sierra Club members in South 
     Carolina, again, we thank you and support your efforts.
           Sincerely,
                                                       Dell Isham,
     SC Chapter Director.
                                  ____

                                                    South Carolina


                                          Wildlife Federation,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 17, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest F. Hollings,
     Russell Senate Office Building,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: The South Carolina Wildlife 
     Federation (SCWF) applauds you for your continued commitment 
     to the environment and to the rare and precious habitats 
     found both nationwide and in South Carolina. It is your 
     continued dedication to these valuable habitats and our 
     mission to support conservation efforts that prompts us to 
     write to you. The purpose of this letter is to express our 
     position on your ``Congaree National Park Act of 2003.''
       The SCWF considers this bill, to change the designation of 
     the Congaree National Monument to the Congaree National Park 
     and to expand the park to include the 4,576 acres, a 
     profitable proposal. As is evidenced in the text of the bill, 
     there are numerous reasons to protect, preserve and expand 
     this area. The rarity of this wilderness area boasts the last 
     and largest example of virgin, old-growth southern hardwood 
     forest in North America. The Congaree National Monument and 
     adjacent private land provide valuable opportunities to 
     experience and learn about our natural, biological, 
     geological, and cultural history. This wilderness is home to 
     over 900 species of plants and animals, including rare, 
     threatened and endangered species. Since habitat size plays 
     such an important role in maintaining healthy communities and 
     diverse gene pools of plant and animal species, this 
     expansion and designation as a National Park are wonderful 
     ways to preserve such an ecologically rich area.
       In addition, Mr. Harry Hampton, the founder of this 
     Federation, was also responsible for the recognition of the 
     Congaree Swamp as a National Monument. In keeping with the 
     vision of our founder it is with great eagerness that we 
     support your efforts to have this bill enacted. The South 
     Carolina Wildlife Federation commends you for introducing the 
     ``Congaree National Park Act of 2003.'' Please use this 
     letter freely in the public record.
           Sincerely,
                                                      Angela Viney
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

                                            South Carolina Coastal


                                          Conservation League,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 23, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest F. Hollings,
     U.S. Senate,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: I am writing to give the Coastal 
     Conservation League's full support for the Congaree National 
     Park Act of 2003. The Congaree Swamp National Monument is a 
     tremendous asset for South Carolina and the nation, and has 
     enjoyed ever-increasing numbers of supporters and visitors. 
     It is definitely worthy of the level of protection that a 
     National Park designation would provide.
       This area has regional, national, and international 
     significance. Regionally it stores waters that reduce 
     downstream flooding, and improves water quality in the 
     Congaree and Santee rivers. It is important on a national 
     scale because it includes the largest intact tract of old 
     growth area of virgin floodplain forest in the United States. 
     And 20 years ago it earned global recognition as an 
     International Biosphere Reserve. Because of its significance 
     it has attracted visitors ranging from Richland County to 
     around the world.
       The expansion of the National Monument area by over 4,000 
     acres will greatly advance state conservation goals, as it 
     will link two core areas identified by the South Carolina 
     Landscape Mapping Project's Ecological Vision, namely the 
     Congaree Swamp National Monument and the Upper Santee Swamp. 
     In addition, the proposed expansion to include Fork Swamp 
     within the proposed National Park boundaries accomplishes the 
     objective of the Heritage Trust Board of the Department of 
     Natural Resources. This body has recommended protection for 
     Fork Swamp, where the Wateree and Congaree rivers from the 
     headwaters of the Santee River.
       The Congaree Swamp is indeed a national treasure that will 
     be enjoyed by visitors from around the country for years to 
     come. The Congaree National Park Act of 2003 is a fitting 
     tribute to its importance. Thank you for all you continue to 
     do to preserve South Carolina's unique natural treasures.
           Sincerely,
                                                       Dana Beach,
     Executive Director.
                                  ____



                                           The River Alliance,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 16, 2003.
     Senator Ernest F. Hollings,
     Russell Building, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC.
       Dear Senator Hollings: Your guiding hand led the effort to 
     protect the unique national treasure of the Congaree Swamp 
     National Monument. We believe the addition of an additional 
     4,500 area and its redesignation as a National Park is a 
     continuation of this stewardship. The River Alliance strongly 
     supports the expansion of the Congaree Swamps' boundaries and 
     its designation as the Congaree Swamp National Park.
       As you may recall, the River Alliance is a public benefit 
     organization tasked with connecting citizens to the region's 
     rivers. The Congaree Swamp is the crown jewel of our region's 
     90 miles of river system. The Alliance sees this physical 
     expansion as a high value environmental and recreational 
     addition. It allows protection of the Running Lake Creek, 
     Bates Old River and Fort Swamp areas. The Wateree River is 
     the logical southern boundary for the expansion. It also 
     allows inclusion of the Congaree's River's edge between the 
     existing federal boundary and the confluence with the 
     Wateree. This brings the primary river access at South 
     Carolina Highway 601 inside the park boundary. The expansion 
     allows protection of additional cultural and environmental 
     resources. It also provides a solid boundary for park 
     management.
       In 1997, the River Alliance initiated a major program to 
     assist the Congaree Swamp in reaching its potential for 
     visitation. With your help, physical outcomes were an 
     improved access road, parking, and the Harry Hampton Visitors 
     Center. Visitation has increased dramatically, but our 
     analysis revealed an issue with its current designation as a 
     ``Monument.'' An inaccurate, but very real, public perception 
     is ``A Monument is less worthy of visitation than a National 
     Park.'' The Congaree Swamp deserves the ``National Park'' 
     designation, not only for its inherent national and 
     intentional value, but to fully reach its potential to 
     attract visitors. Congaree Swamp visitors leave with an 
     embedded imprint of natural beauty. We wish that every 
     citizen can have this experience. Visitors become advocates 
     for the Swamp and for the National Park Service.
       From the Alliance perspective, public ownership of the 
     river's edge of the Congaree Swamp is a valuable commodity, 
     the more the better. It allows public access by boat, canoe 
     or kayak to the Swamp's bluffs, banks and creeks from the 
     waters of the Congaree River. This offers visitors an 
     unparalleled view of the ecosystem and access to the true 
     wilderness. The record trees accessible from the water, are 
     an awesome demonstration of the value of federal park 
     protection. The expansion will extend the edge to the Wateree 
     River. It will also allow the current Highway 601 access to 
     become a true entry point to the Swamp with an opportunity 
     for river-focused education and interpretation. As with the 
     Harry Hampton Visitors Center project, the River Alliance is 
     committed to assist in the creation of a visitor experience 
     worthy of the environmental resource. The increased Congaree 
     frontage sets the stage.
       We know your action is forthcoming and we strongly support 
     the expansion and redesignation. We will be happy to answer 
     any questions, provide additional information, or testify to 
     Congress as you desire. If you have any questions, feel free 
     to contact me at (803) 765-2200.
           Sincerely,
                                                Michael T. Dawson,
     Director.
                                  ____



                                    Friends of Congaree Swamp,

                                      Columbia, SC, June 23, 2003.
     Hon. Ernest Hollings,
     Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC.
     Re: Congaree Swamp--Boundary Expansion and National Park 
         Designation
       Dear Senator Hollings: For more than 25 years, you have 
     provided outstanding leadership for Congaree Swamp National 
     Monument. You were instrumental in establishing the monument 
     in 1976 and expanding the monument in 1988. You have obtained 
     funding for Congaree land acquisition, the entrance road, the 
     Harry Hampton Visitor Center, and, recently, the maintenance 
     facility.
       Congaree Swamp's significance is affirmed by many studies 
     and by its designations as a National Natural Landmark, a 
     National Monument, and an International Biosphere Reserve. A 
     nomination is prepared to recognize Congaree Swamp as 
     Wetlands of International Importance.
       The Friends of Congaree Swamp are delighted by your 
     introduction of legislation to expand Congaree Swamp National 
     Monument and to change its designation from National Monument 
     to National Park.
       Congaree boundary expansion is a significant step toward 
     implementing several visions:
       It implements part of the South Carolina Conservation 
     Vision Map by linking two major core areas: Congaree Swamp 
     National Monument and the Upper Santee Swamp Natural Area;
       It implements part of the Fork Swamp Large Area Project, a 
     landscape-scale conservation project approved more than two 
     years ago by the SC Heritage Trust Advisory Board of the SC 
     Dept. of Natural Resources; and
       It supports legislation you introduced in 2002, and again 
     in 2003, regarding a Southern Campaign of the Revolution 
     Heritage Area in South Carolina.
       ``Timing is everything.'' This boundary expansion was 
     proposed and studied extensively in 1994, but one of the two 
     key landowners was hesitant at that time to include the tract 
     in legislation. Now, in 2003, both key landowners (Riverstone 
     Properties and the Beidler family) are willing to sell their 
     tracts for addition to Congaree Swamp National Monument.

[[Page S8362]]

       However, both key landowners will sell these tracts to 
     other buyers if the Congaree expansion languishes. Both key 
     landowners recognize the potential to subdivide and sell 
     their tracts as smaller parcels. On such parcel has 
     already been sold. This situation underscores the urgency 
     to authorize Congaree's expanded boundary and appropriate 
     funding to purchase both key tracts before they are 
     subdivided and sold as multiple parcels, especially if the 
     new owners of the multiple parcels are unwilling to 
     include their land in the Congaree boundary.
       We support Congaree's designation as a National Park. 
     Congaree Swamp National Monument has received visitors from 
     more than 90 countries. Visitation--from throughout the 
     United States as well as internationally--will surely 
     increase if Congaree's significance is further recognized by 
     National Park status.
       Currently, Congaree's old-growth forest is the principal 
     theme interpreted by the National Park Service. We understand 
     Congaree's cultural/historical resources would be interpreted 
     as the second theme if Congaree becomes a National Park. 
     Friends of Congaree Swamp can provide historical information 
     for lands within this Congaree boundary expansion.
       We recall your tremendous efforts in 1988, when you secured 
     FY 1989 funding for Congaree land acquisition while 
     simultaneously authorizing Congaree's 7,000-acre expansion. 
     How wonderful if your Congaree expansion/park legislation can 
     be authorized in 2003 and funding obtained promptly 
     thereafter to purchase these Congaree tracts!
       On behalf of our members and our Board of Directors, we are 
     grateful for your continued leadership. Please do not 
     hesitate to contact us for additional information and 
     assistance.
           Sincerely,
                                                LaBruce Alexander,
                             President, Friends of Congaree Swamp.
                                 ______