[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 78 (Tuesday, May 9, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E409]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF KIM HOSEN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 9, 2023

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life and work of 
Kim Hosen. Kim was a dedicated environmentalist who made significant 
contributions to the protection and preservation of the natural 
habitats in Prince William County, Virginia.
  Kim was the founding Executive Director of the Prince William 
Conservation Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving 
the natural resources of the region. Kim's tireless efforts led to the 
protection of approximately 300 acres of land, creating the Merrimac 
Farm Wildlife Management Area, and establishing the Bluebell Festival, 
which celebrates the acquisition of this area, which now attracts 
nearly 1,000 people annually. Additionally, Kim initiated the Wildlife 
Garden, which showcases what is possible for backyard habitats, and 
launched the Merrimac Farm VA Master Naturalist Chapter. I was proud to 
partner with her to fight for an environmentally just solution to coal 
ash pollution at Possum Point.
  Kim was instrumental in establishing 40 miles of scenic by-ways all 
located in the Rural Crescent. She also led the effort to rewrite the 
Environment and the Parks, Trails, and Open Space Chapter of the 2008 
Comprehensive Plan, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to 
protecting the unique habitats and quality of life for all residents of 
Prince William County.
  Her consistent, reliable, and knowledgeable voice for the environment 
and healthy communities made her an invaluable resource for Prince 
William County Planning Commissioners, the Board of County Supervisors, 
and residents who sought her expertise on how to best protect the 
natural resources of the area.
  Kim's contributions were recognized throughout her career. These 
include the Conservation and Environmental Education for Potomac River 
National Wildlife Refuge Complex from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 
2004, Conservationist of the Year from Ducks Unlimited in 2006 and 
2015, Influential Women Award from Prince William Living in 2015, 
Native Plant Champion from Plant NoVA Natives in 2016, and the 
Certificate of Appreciation from the Committee of 100 in 2022.
  Kim's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and 
the natural habitats she helped protect. Her commitment to preserving 
the environment and educating future generations will continue to 
inspire others to follow in her footsteps. Kim will always be 
remembered as a remarkable environmentalist who made a lasting impact 
on the world around her. She is survived by her two sons, Eli and Jake. 
She will be dearly missed by her family and friends and our entire 
community.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commemorating the 
life of Kim Hosen and in sending her family our sincere condolences.

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