[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 134 (Thursday, September 17, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H6089]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              CHIWAUKEE PRAIRIE ILLINOIS BEACH LAKE PLAIN

  (Mr. DOLD asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. DOLD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Chiwaukee 
Prairie Illinois Beach Lake Plain for being designated as a Ramsar 
Wetland of International Importance.
  As the 38th Ramsar Wetland in the United States, this designation 
recognizes the Lake Plain for its globally significant contribution to 
biodiversity and importance to human health and economy.
  Mr. Speaker, wetlands are among the Earth's most diverse and 
productive ecosystems, providing flood control, food, and freshwater. 
The Lake Plain protects diverse natural communities, including globally 
rare wetlands, while still being open to the public. This gives our 
community the chance to experience and enjoy nature, while learning 
about biodiversity and how to conserve our natural resources.
  I specifically want to congratulate the many groups that made this 
conservation effort possible, including the Lake County Forest Preserve 
District, the Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund, and the Illinois 
Department of Natural Resources.
  This honor is only the beginning for the Chiwaukee Prairie Illinois 
Beach Lake Plain. I look forward to seeing what else they will 
accomplish in the future.

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