```

[Congressional Bills 118th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1281 Introduced in House (IH)]

<DOC>

118th CONGRESS
  2d Session
H. RES. 1281

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

_______________________________________________________________________

                    IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                              June 7, 2024

Mrs. Hinson (for herself, Mr. Sorensen, Mr. Van Orden, Mr. LaHood, Mrs. 
  Miller-Meeks, and Mr. Finstad) submitted the following resolution; 
        which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

_______________________________________________________________________

                               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 
        ecosystem;
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 research and monitoring, contributing 
        valuable data and insights 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
            (3) encourages continued support for the conservation and 
        management of the Upper Mississippi River ecosystem and the 
        enhancement of public awareness and engagement in the 
        stewardship of the region's invaluable natural resources.
                                 <all>
```