Ann Kirkpatrick

Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona

Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona. I yield back my time.

Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona

Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 146, the Omnibus Public Lands Bill, in part because of the important designations it makes for areas in Arizona's First Congressional District. Among the many natural treasures that make our country beautiful, several of the most beautiful are in Greater Arizona, including the 58,000 square miles that comprise the district I represent. One such treasure, Fossil Creek, runs along the border between Gila and Yavapai Counties, as well as between the Coconino and Tonto National Forests. The entire watershed is within National Forest land and is surrounded by Fossil Springs Wilderness and Mazatal Wilderness areas. These fourteen miles of spring-fed water provide families with opportunities for camping, birding, hiking, horseback riding, and other recreational activities. In addition to the remarkable beauty of the area, Fossil Creek represents a cultural treasure as well. The creek sustained the Yavapai-Apache people who have inhabited the area, and the Yavapai- Apache Nation still considers Fossil Creek sacred ancestral homeland. Ancient artifacts, ruins, and pictographs have been found on numerous locations along Fossil Creek's terraces, and undiscovered archaeological treasures surely remain. I commend the efforts of folks in Cottonwood, Camp Verde, and Clarkdale communities to have Fossil Creek included in the Wild and Scenic River System, which will rightly highlight the beautiful and unique features of the area for generations. Walnut Canyon National Monument is another great treasure in Northern Arizona, and this bill includes a study to help develop a long-term management plan that addresses the recreational, cultural, and natural resources in the area. The study has had the strong backing of Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff, and through their efforts we will protect the natural habitat and sacred grounds surrounding the Walnut Canyon National Monument. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to consider this legislation, which includes so many provisions to protect and enhance our nation's natural and cultural treasures.