From the Office of Senator Kerry

Monday, July 2, 2001

Washington, DC -- Senators John F. Kerry and Edward M. Kennedy announced today that the Senate Appropriations Committee has approved $1 million in funding to acquire land for the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. The funds are contained in the Interior Appropriations Bill for the fiscal year starting October 1.

Senator Kerry said, "This critical funding will allow for the addition of 50 acres of ever-scarce grassland to the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. In a time when sprawl is continually threatening our natural treasures, the acquisition of Kennelly Farm will preserve a home for rare wildlife for generations to come."

"I'm pleased that Congress is providing this funding for the Kennelly Farm," said Senator Kennedy. "By increasing the land area in the Refuge, we can protect open spaces and natural habitats, improve the quality of life for families and neighborhoods, and preserve the environment."

The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1944 by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Since that time, eight additional national wildlife refuges have been established in the complex to support migratory birds, endangered species, and wetland protection. Encompassing approximately 10,000 acres, the complex is located in densely populated eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The number of annual visitors exceeds 300,000, and is continuing to grow.

This funding will be used to acquire tracts within the boundaries of the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Complex. The land will expand the Great Meadows, Massasoit, and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuges. One of the most significant parcels of land that will be purchased is the Kennelly Farm, which will add grasslands, providing a habitat for waterfowl, neotropical songbirds, and resident wildlife.

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