[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 44 (Monday, March 21, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E352]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING CALIFORNIA NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY SECRETARY JOHN LAIRD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 21, 2016

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative 
Garamendi and Representative Huffman, rise to recognize and honor 
Secretary John Laird for his great contribution to the designation of 
the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 
10, 2015.
  This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless 
work of countless advocates like Secretary Laird. Their commitment to 
engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders 
across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve 
permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument.
  Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the 
hundreds of pristine parks across the country that represent America's 
most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological 
formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. 
Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and 
researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And 
avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to 
enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor 
enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond.
  The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of 
the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these 
lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from 
interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the 
Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the 
gravity of conservation.
  The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave 
for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a 
critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the 
Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working 
with Secretary Laird to further our mutual goal of preserving our 
nation's great open spaces, and we look forward to collaborating in the 
future.

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