[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 120 (Tuesday, June 30, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E589]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                    CELEBRATING GREAT OUTDOORS MONTH

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                             HON. BOB GIBBS

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 30, 2020

  Mr. GIBBS. Madam Speaker, from coast to coast and in every state and 
territory, the United States is home to a diverse array of scenic 
views, pristine wilderness, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Great 
Outdoors Month, designated every June, is our opportunity to celebrate 
and enjoy these lands.
  Whether it's the forests and mountains of Appalachia or the deserts 
and mesas of the Southwest, Americans have opportunities to explore the 
beauty of our great outdoors. Every year millions of people experience 
the splendor of our National Parks, National Forests; and other 
recreation lands administered by the federal government.
  We also enjoy state park systems, local parks departments, and 
private recreational lands, which play an important part in maintaining 
our heritage and history of outdoorsmanship. Hiking, camping, hunting, 
fishing, and geocaching are just a few of the many activities available 
in these parks.
  These great outdoors provide a source of leisure and entertainment, a 
sense of wonder and awe, and the ability to cherish and appreciate the 
picturesque lands with which America has been blessed. Studies show 
outdoor activity is also beneficial to one's physical and mental 
health, as the simple act of being outdoors can lower blood pressure, 
heart rate, and stress while outdoor exercise can reduce the risk of 
diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  Great Outdoors Month honors the grandeur of nature and our 
responsibility to preserve it for future generations. Many 
organizations' efforts to emphasize and spread awareness of the 
principles of ``Leave No Trace'', which seeks to minimize our impact on 
preserved land, are important to this responsibility.
  As are the conservation efforts of America's sportsmen and 
sportswomen. Responsible use of our nation's hunting grounds and 
respectful observance of harvesting regulations play a critical role in 
wildlife management and habitat protection. These hunters, trappers, 
and anglers are among the most ardent stewards--of our nation's most 
precious lands.
  To celebrate Great Outdoors Month, I encourage all Americans who can, 
to spend some time at any of our Nation's parks, national or state 
forests, hunting lands, or other outdoor spaces.

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