[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 103 (Thursday, July 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1506]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                ICE AGE FLOODS NATIONAL GEOLOGICAL TRAIL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DOC HASTINGS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2004

  Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing 
legislation to create the Ice Age Floods National Geological Trail.
  At the end of the Ice Age, 12,000-17,000 years ago, a series of 
cataclysmic floods occurred in what is now the northwest region of the 
United States. These floods left dramatic and distinguishing features 
on the landscape throughout Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon.
  In 2001, a joint study team headed by the National Park Service, that 
included 70 members from public and private entities, completed a study 
endorsing the establishment of the Ice Age Floods National Geological 
Trail to recognize the national significance of this phenomenon and to 
coordinate public and private sector entities in the presentation of 
the story of the Ice Age Floods.
  The Ice Age Floods National Geological Trail would reveal, to the 
public, a fascinating story that spans across the Pacific Northwest. 
Regional, national, and international travelers would have the 
opportunity to discover how immensely powerful cataclysmic floods had a 
profound effect in shaping distinctive landscapes and in defining ways 
of life, from the flanks of the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.
  The Trail can be expected to generate significant economic benefit, 
through increased tourism, in a vast and largely rural region. I ask 
you to refer this legislation to the appropriate committee for 
consideration.

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