[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 149 (Thursday, September 14, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING ELIZABETH ``LIBBY'' HERLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NIKI TSONGAS

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 14, 2017

  Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, each year half a million people visit the 
Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex, eight 
individual wildlife refuges that are home to 30 miles of beautiful 
walking trails, canoe launches, treasured fishing spots, and peaceful 
scenic overlooks. Since 2003, Project Leader Elizabeth ``Libby'' 
Herland has been the steward of this 17,000-acre environmental jewel; a 
guardian of its remarkable landscape and a visionary who has helped 
protect six Federally-listed endangered and threatened species on eight 
refuges, which include many rivers and a portion of the ocean shore of 
Cape Cod.
   Upon Libby's retirement on September 30, 2017, the Fish and Wildlife 
Service will lose one of its most dedicated and passionate officials. 
However, Libby's influence will remain visible and tangible for many 
years to come. Under Libby's supervision, the eight refuges that make 
up the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex expanded 
outreach to urban areas, building on successful urban education 
programs in Lowell, Massachusetts, and expanded visitor facilities. 
Libby oversaw the construction of the Assabet River National Wildlife 
Refuge Visitor Center which hosts hundreds of school children year 
after year to learn about the natural wonders that surround them.
   Libby dedicated herself to a lifetime of public service. During her 
29-year career with the Fish and Wildlife Service, Libby served in a 
myriad of positions across the organization, from managing the Wallkill 
River National Wildlife Refuge in Sussex County, New Jersey to the 
Regional Partners for Wildlife Coordinator in Newton, Massachusetts.
   After working closely with Libby for many years, I am profoundly 
appreciative of her commitment to wildlife, education, and her many 
years of effective leadership. Libby's visionary leadership will be 
missed across the East Coast of America.
   I extend my sincerest thanks and congratulations to Libby on behalf 
of a grateful nation, and I am confident that even in retirement she 
will remain a steward of our environment.

                          ____________________