[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 56 (Wednesday, May 10, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E789-E790]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN COMMEMORATION OF THE NATIONAL WETLANDS LANDOWNER STEWARDSHIP AWARD 
        TO THE HIGEL FAMILY FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW INSTITUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN T. SALAZAR

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 10, 2006

  Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Higel 
family of Alamosa, Colorado, as the honored recipient of the National 
Wetlands Landowner Stewardship Award from the Environmental Law 
Institute.
  This award, specifically for conservation in Wetlands areas, 
recognizes the Higel family's commitment to conservation while 
maintaining sustainable agricultural conditions in the same area. The 
values the Higel's are being honored for are values all of us strive 
for in farming at any level. These values include a healthy thriving 
relationship between people

[[Page E790]]

and the ground that allows food to be produced on the land and a 
respect for the important habitat qualities and wetlands necessary for 
abundant wildlife.
  Recently the Higel family sold over 1,000 acres of their ranch land 
to the Colorado Division of Wildlife in order to create the Higel State 
Wildlife Area. This exchange opens part of the Rio Grande River 
corridor and its wetlands to the public for wildlife viewing and 
hunting. The Higel's are also currently working with Ducks Unlimited to 
protect their adjacent acreage through conservation easements. This 
hard work is done all while promoting optimal wildlife habitat and a 
viable ranching operation. The Higel's effort is a model that farmers 
and ranchers nationwide should look to for how to manage their 
operations in a way that also protects nature. The dedication they have 
shown to the land and the environment is tremendous and I am proud that 
they have led by example. Their leadership in showing that ranchers can 
engage in both conservation and agriculture practices will be 
recognized today by myself and by the Environmental Law Institute. The 
real reward will be seen by the next generation of Coloradans who will 
be able to enjoy the wildlife area donated and created by the Higel 
family.
  I am proud to represent the Higel family and their outstanding land 
stewardship in Colorado's Third District. I urge my colleagues to join 
me today in recognizing the Higel family for receiving this award.

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