For the Reporter

U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement after the House Natural Resources Committee passed the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act (H.R. 1785) out of committee:

“I am very pleased that Chairman Hastings and the Natural Resources Committee unanimously passed my Mountains to Sound Greenway legislation this morning. Ensuring the proper recognition of both the achievements and beauty of our state, will always be a top priority for me. The Mountains to Sound Greenway is an important part of that, as it has played a role in nearly every major industry in the state – from agriculture to energy to technology. This legislation will highlight the heritage and legacy of the area while also protecting property rights. Clearing the committee is a critical step in the legislative process and I will continue working with my colleagues to make this law.”

Background

Twenty years of innovative conservation and collaborative solutions protect the natural heritage of the Greenway. This network of parks, forests, farms and cities is part of a regional history and a legacy for future generations. The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area will be a fitting recognition of this regional identity in the Pacific Northwest, and serve as a model of sustainability and cooperative solutions for the nation.

A National Heritage Area is a large, lived-in area designated by the United States Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a landscape of national distinction. This designation provides a flexible strategy to encourage residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement projects to preserve a landscape, without affecting private property rights.