[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 6]
[Senate]
[Page 8661]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO CARRIE WALIA

 Mr. KING. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the 
outstanding devotion of Carrie Walia, who has worked to preserve 
Maine's rich outdoor heritage throughout her career. Carrie is stepping 
down from her position as executive director of Loon Echo Land Trust, 
and we recognize her service and thank her for her contribution to the 
great State of Maine.
  In her role as executive director of Loon Echo Land Trust, LELT, Ms. 
Walia has invested deeply in the environmental sustainability of 
Maine's communities, specifically the Sebago Lakes region. That region 
has long been a renowned outdoor recreation area, attracting outdoor 
enthusiasts of all kinds. From boating to ice fishing, locals and 
visitors alike enjoy the natural beauty and tremendous resources it has 
to offer. Under Ms. Walia's leadership, LELT has been successful in 
preserving the region's beauty and ensuring its sustainability for 
years to come.
  Ms. Walia joined LELT in 2004, while also working for the USDA-
Natural Resources Conservation Service. Since becoming the executive 
director of LELT in 2008, she has spearheaded many conservation efforts 
with tremendous success. Her accomplishments include doubling LELT's 
conservation lands from 3,300 to 6,600 acres and securing over $5.5 
million in grants for high priority land acquisitions. She leaves LELT 
poised for continued success working on behalf of Maine communities.
  I would like to join LELT and the people of Maine in recognizing and 
thanking Ms. Walia for her work and dedication to our great State. Her 
groundbreaking work with LELT has helped to preserve Maine's valuable 
natural resources and contribute to Maine's status as a leader in 
nature conservation and environmental stewardship. The State of Maine 
owes Ms. Walia immensely for all her hard work, and I wish her all the 
best in her retirement.

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