[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 21, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S2182]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

             50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BLANCHARD SPRINGS CAVERNS

 Mr. BOOZMAN. Madam President, I rise today to recognize 
Blanchard Springs Caverns on its 50th anniversary. Blanchard Springs 
Caverns--BSC--opened to the public in 1973 after decades of underground 
exploration and development to share this natural wonder with the 
community and the entire world.
  Blanchard Springs Caverns is the second-largest commercial cave in 
the country and is often described as one of the most beautiful. This 
is, in part, thanks to U.S. Forest Service--USFS--employees, community 
advocates, and outdoor enthusiasts who ensure they are maintained in 
their natural state--helping Arkansas live up to its own proud title as 
a home of spectacular outdoor elements and resources.
  Although the first documented visit to the cave system was in 1934 by 
Civilian Conservation Corps planner Willard Hadley, its name is derived 
from the nearby spring that formed it and had been used by John H. 
Blanchard, a Civil War veteran who called the area home, to power a 
gristmill.
  The Dripstone Trail Tour was the first to launch for recreational 
use, and as time went on, two other tours, the Discovery Trail and the 
Wild Cave, opened as well. BSC is referred to as a ``living'' or 
``active'' cave, as it is constantly changing. The caverns include an 
underground river, delicate ``soda straw'' formations, stalactites, 
stalagmites, columns, and huge areas of flowstone. Along with the 
unique formations, it is also home to a number of species of cave 
animals. The USFS has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring 
preservation and conservation of the habitants including the Ozark 
blind salamander native to BSC. In addition to what is happening 
underground, there is also the amazing landscape of the Ozark National 
Forest. As people from all across the globe are attracted to the area 
for its splendor, they are driving the local economy. This popular 
destination helps support area businesses, spurring critical 
development and commerce.
  I am pleased to recognize all those helping to maintain Blanchard 
Springs Caverns over the last five decades. This natural wonder is 
accessible and engaging because of their dedication to preserving it 
for all Arkansans and visitors to enjoy.

                          ____________________