Bass and Bradley Introduce Legislation to Protect Wild River, Sandwich Range Areas of White Mountains
BASS AND BRADLEY INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO PROTECT WILD RIVER, SANDWICH RANGE AREAS OF WHITE MOUNTAINS
Legislation part of White Mountain National Forest 10-year plan
(Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Reps. Charles Bass and Jeb Bradley (R-NH) today introduced legislation that will designate areas of New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) as "wilderness." Bass' legislation will create a new wilderness area of approximately 23,700 acres in size in the Wild River Valley. Bradley's legislation will expand the existing wilderness area in the Sandwich Range by 10,800 acres. Both wilderness areas were proposed in the WMNF plan and require Congressional action in order to be established.
"The Whites are one of the most visited national forests in the country for good reason, with their ready mix of recreational opportunities, natural conservation and pristine habitat protection, and economic support," said Bass. "From the passage of the Weeks Act that established the national forest system in the eastern U.S. in 1911 while my grandfather was governor, through the almost 100 years of the forest's history, the White Mountain National Forest has been a jewel and place of solitude for millions of Granite Staters and visitors alike. I am honored to play a small part to improve the experience for millions of future visitors and protect our precious habitats and native ecosystems."
Bradley stated, "As someone who has climbed all 48 of New Hampshire's 4,000-foot peaks, I know firsthand how important the wilderness designation is to preserving the beauty and solitude of the White Mountain National Forest. I have also hiked the Wild River and Sandwich Range areas and I know that they are truly deserving of this designation, which will preserve the areas for future generations to be able to enjoy. I commend Forest Supervisor Tom Wagner and his staff for their work in putting this sensible plan forward, and I look forward to working with the rest of the Congressional Delegation to make this plan a reality."
http://www.house.gov/bradley/20060330_main.html