[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11571]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL TRAILS DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 3, 2004

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, June 5, marks the 
American Hiking Society's 12th annual National Trails Day. This year's 
theme: ``Trails and Health . . . A Natural Connection.'' More than 1 
million people across the country will participate in a trail related 
activity in observation of this special day.
  All 50 states have participated in National Trails Day, along with 
the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. 
The significant role trails play in Americans' lives often goes 
underappreciated--nearly 70% of all Americans 16 or older participate 
in at least one trail-related activity on the United States' 200,000 
miles of trails. The use of trails appeals to almost any individual, 
allowing access to nature for exercise, study, photography, camping, 
relaxing, and a variety of other recreational activities.
  With an increased rate of obesity amongst Americans and a growing 
trend of sedentary lifestyles, it makes more sense than ever to take 
advantage of trails, which provide an excellent means for individuals 
to incorporate exercise into their lifestyles. I urge every member to 
take note of the National Trails Day events in their Congressional 
District and to become involved in a day that celebrates important 
aspects of livability--health, fitness, and the great outdoors.

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