[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 83 (Tuesday, May 20, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S4481]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING DON BRIGHT,

 Mr JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to Don Bright, 
who has served as supervisor of the Nebraska National Forest since 
2001. In this capacity, Don has overseen the management of nearly 1.1 
million acres of public land, including the Buffalo Gap and Fort Pierre 
National Grasslands, in my home State of South Dakota. I have enjoyed 
working with Don and value his hard work and leadership. I know that 
Don will carry this same degree of professionalism with him to his new 
position at the Albuquerque Headquarters.
  I want to take a few minutes and explain to the Senate the role Don 
has played in shaping the relationship of the Forest Service and local 
communities. As supervisor of the Nebraska National Forest, Don guided 
a revision of its Land Management Plan and took the lead in addressing 
complicated, yet important, prairie dog management issues. By working 
with area ranchers to find solutions to managing local resources, Don 
helped foster a spirit of collaboration that benefits all involved.
  For the past 8 years, South Dakota has faced a devastating drought 
and continual threat of fire throughout its grasslands. In response to 
this challenge, Don has improved fire and fuels management plans and 
worked hand-in-hand with local volunteer fire departments to form 
lasting bonds of cooperation that help protect both lands and citizens.
  Most importantly, Don is someone that is trusted by and has worked 
well with the many groups interested in public lands management 
throughout South Dakota and Nebraska. His countless hours of hard work 
have undoubtedly had a positive impact for the Forest Service.
  In closing, I want to thank Don Bright for his professionalism, 
service and assistance over these many years and wish him the best of 
luck in his new position. I know that Don can leave knowing that future 
generations will be well-served by his efforts.

                          ____________________