[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 37 (Thursday, March 14, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       INTRODUCTION OF NORTHERN ROCKIES ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION ACT

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 14, 2013

  Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, the destruction 
caused by natural disasters across the country affirms the need to 
address climate change. Conservation efforts that protect wildlife 
ecosystems help to mitigate these climate concerns as well as provide 
lands for all Americans to enjoy.
  Today, I am proud to introduce legislation that helps preserve the 
northern Rockies--one of our country's vital environmental regions. The 
Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act will safeguard 23 million 
acres by establishing a system to connect biological corridors on 
public lands in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Washington. It 
prioritizes the health of whole ecosystems by designating all of the 
inventoried roadless areas as wilderness, including wild and scenic 
rivers. This designation helps ensure the preservation of native plants 
and animals.
  It's our responsibility to preserve our country's natural treasures 
for our own and future generations. I thank my colleagues Reps. Markey, 
Grijalva, Capps, and Nadler for their support, and I urge others to 
join us in helping to protect these lands.

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