Izaak Walton League of America

The Izaak Walton League of America welcomes a House Resolution that recognizes the importance of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The bipartisan resolution was introduced by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) on June 7 with five cosponsors: Reps. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisc.), Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa) and Brad Finstad (R-Minn.).

In the early 1920s, the Izaak Walton League of America organized the advocacy campaign that succeeded in preventing development and destruction of wetlands along 261 miles of the river. The League’s efforts resulted in legislation passed by Congress and signed into law on June 7, 1924. (See details at www.iwla.org/upperMiss.)

The Resolution recognizes refuge for its “significant contributions to wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and scientific research” and “the dedication of local conservationists.” It also encourages “continued support for the conservation and management of the Upper Mississippi River ecosystem.”

The full text of the Resolution follows.

118TH CONGRESS, 2D SESSION

H. Res

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Mrs. HINSON submitted the following resolution

RESOLUTION

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River Basin is a critical ecosystem supporting diverse flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, over 100 species of fish, and numerous species of reptiles and amphibians;

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge was established on June 7, 1924, by an Act of Congress as a sanctuary for migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife;

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge conserves more than 250,000 acres, encompassing vast stretches of the Upper Mississippi River and its adjacent lands, providing essential habitat for wildlife and offering opportunities for outdoor recreation, public education, and scientific research;

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge serves as a vital corridor for migratory birds, supporting millions of waterfowl and other avian species as they travel along the Mississippi Flyway, one of North America’s most significant migratory routes;

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge plays a crucial role in conserving and restoring native habitats, including floodplain forests, wetlands, grasslands, and backwaters, contributing to the overall health and resilience of the Upper Mississippi River eco- system;

Whereas there are an estimated 4,000,000 visits annually to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge for wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, paddling, hiking, and other outdoor recreation generating $125,000,000 for the regional economy;

Whereas the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge serves as a living laboratory for scientific re- search and monitoring, contributing valuable data and in- sights into the ecology, hydrology, and management of large river systems and their associated habitats; and

Whereas the stewardship and conservation efforts of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, in collaboration with State agencies, Tribal nations, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and local communities, have been instrumental in protecting and preserving the natural heritage of the Upper Mississippi River for future generations: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

(1) celebrates and honors the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge and recognizes its significant contributions to wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and scientific research;

(2) recognizes the dedication of local conservationists to protect and preserve the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge; and

Reps. Sorensen, Van Orden, LaHood, Miller-Meeks, and Finstad.

Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League fights for clean air and water, healthy fish and wildlife habitat and conservation of our natural resources for future generations. The League plays a unique role in supporting community-based science and local conservation and has a long legacy of shaping sound national policy. See www.iwla.org. Contacts