[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 161 (Friday, October 3, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXTENDING AUTHORIZATION OF DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA 
                      CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMISSION

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 29, 2008

  Mr. GARRETT. Madam Speaker, I am pleased that the House recently 
considered and unanimously consented to the passage of H.R. 7017, a 
bill to reauthorize the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area 
(DWGNRA) Citizens Advisory Commission (CAC) for an additional year. 
Both Representative Carney and I believe that this citizen action group 
serves as an important liaison between National Park Service Officials 
and park neighbors.
  Communication is the key to addressing and resolving citizen 
concerns, and it is clear that residents and park users value the 
opportunity to respond to DWGNRA decisions and propose alternative 
ideas. I was proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation and I 
believe it will improve the communication process between park 
officials and the local community. The citizens of New Jersey should be 
confident in the ability of the Federal Government to hear and address 
their suggestions.
  The Delaware Water Gap region has a turbulent history, one marked by 
improper government interference and Federal invasion of the rights of 
property owners. Realizing this, my predecessor, Representative Marge 
Roukama, authored legislation establishing a Citizen's Advisory 
Commission (CAC) in 1988. The CAC was reauthorized for an additional 
decade in 1998 and has served as a forum for the public to interact 
with park officials.
  Due to the combined efforts of various Commission members and park 
officials, the Delaware Water Gap NRA has increased in popularity and 
sees millions of visitors each year. These visitors enjoy the beauty of 
the scenery and the opportunity to participate in activities like 
hiking, canoeing, and swimming. I am confident that the CAC will 
continue to play a valuable role in preserving the splendor of the 
Delaware Water Gap for future generations.
  The ability of local residents to communicate with Federal agencies 
has been one of my main focuses and I call upon the Senate to follow 
the House's example and pass this important legislation.

                          ____________________