Statement on Wilderness Act 50th Anniversary
Washington, D.C.—In recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) issued the following statement:
“Our country is blessed with some of the most captivating natural landscapes in the world. From the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wilderness Area in California to Fire Island in New York to the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, these remarkable national treasures draw in millions of visitors from across the globe to admire their beauty.
“Fifty years ago today, President Johnson recognized the unique value of these lands and took important action by signing into law the Wilderness Act of 1964, providing for the preservation and protection of public land for generations to come. And this act remains as important today as it was fifty years ago.
“These areas not only serve as a reminder of our heritage and a source of recreation, but they also provide significant economic benefit to our local communities. Yet, these special places are facing increasing threats from development as well as climate change.
“Each year from 1966 to 2009, Congress worked to protect these lands through wilderness designations. Sadly, the 111th Congress broke with this tradition, and for five years Congress failed to pass a wilderness bill.
“As SEEC Members who appreciate both the environmental and economic value of America’s natural landscapes we were happy this year Congress finally passed a wilderness bill. We will continue fighting to set aside more of our nation’s special places as wilderness areas. And it is our sincere hope our colleagues will join us in this effort and continue Congress’s tradition of protecting our nation’s wild lands for future generations.”