Hearing of Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Natural Parks, on S. 175, S. 322, S. 323, S. 429

Hearing of Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Natural Parks, on S. 175, S. 322, S. 323, S. 429

Thank you Mr. Chairman, for convening this hearing to discuss S. 429 and the designation of the nationally significant Upper Housatonic Valley. This area embodies important pieces of our history and heritage as Americans and I hope you will see the value in designating it a National Heritage area.

In 2000, congress established criteria clarifying the requirements for designation of a National Heritage Area. The area must encompass cultural, natural, and historical heritage of national significance. It must have broad public support, and a qualified entity to manage the area. The Upper Housatonic Valley has all of these. In fact, the Park Service cites the Upper Housatonic Valley as the best example of how to go about becoming a National Heritage Area. We hope today that we can move the Upper Housatonic Valley toward being an example of more than just the process, but of actually being a successful National Heritage Area.

The Upper Housatonic Valley is a unique cultural and geographical region that encompasses 29 towns in the Housatonic River watershed, extending 60 miles from Lanesboro, Massachusetts to Kent, Connecticut. The valley has made significant national contributions through literary, artistic, musical, and architectural achievements. It was the backdrop for many important Revolutionary War era events, the cradle of the iron, paper, and electrical industries, and the home to key figures and events in the abolitionist and civil rights movements. It includes five National Historic Landmarks and four National Natural Landmarks.
All of these are well documented in the Feasibility study that was completed in 2003.

The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area Act would officially designate the region as part of the National Park Service system. It would also authorize funding for a variety of activities that conserve the significant natural, historical, cultural, and scenic resources, and that provide educational and recreational opportunities in the area. The Upper Housatonic Valley is part of our national identity. Making it a National Heritage Area will preserve and develop the experiences that connect us to our history and heritage as Americans.

Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage area, Inc., the non profit group that has been working on development of the area, has already done much to raise awareness of the beauty and historical value of this area. By coordinating with other groups they have put together an illustrated Iron Heritage Trail brochure, sponsored an October weekend of Heritage walks, organized a summer artistic/environmental painting event, and developed a graduate course for local school teachers on the culture, natural, and industrial heritage of the area.

Through this broad, flexible and locally led initiative, the states of Connecticut and Massachusetts will be able to make real progress in protecting the river and its heritage and in guiding regional economic development. Making the Upper Housatonic Valley a heritage area will facilitate locally led and truly voluntary programs that will help protect the river for future generations and strengthen the economies of these small towns by developing regional tourism.

The Upper Housatonic Valley is a precious part of America's heritage. I am sure you will see how much value the Upper Housatonic Valley has for maintaining our national heritage and sharing it with generations to come. I strongly support S. 429 and the designation of the Upper Housatonic Valley as a National Heritage Area.

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