For Immediate Release
June 28, 2006
Contact: Josh Moenning
(402) 438-1598
Washington D.C. - Congressman Jeff Fortenberry today testified at a hearing of the National Parks Subcommittee on his bill to convey the Lewis and Clark Visitors center at Nebraska City to a non-profit organization. Following is Fortenberrys testimony:
Chairman Brown and members of the Subcommittee: Thank you for holding this hearing on H.R. 3871, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to convey a Lewis and Clark visitor center in my district from the National Park Service to a well-respected non-profit organization. As the sponsor of this bill, I encourage your prompt and favorable consideration.
The bill is very straightforward and hopefully will be favorably considered. It would simply convey certain federal land near Nebraska City associated with the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center to the related non-profit group, the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center Foundation, Inc. The bill also authorizes $150,000 annually for ten years to operate the facility.
It is important to note that I worked with the National Park Service in drafting the language for the bill and this proposed conveyance fits with the long-range plans for the center. I also believe that it would be the most cost-effective option for the Park Service.
H.R. 3871 is cosponsored by both of my colleagues from Nebraska, Representatives Lee Terry and Tom Osborne. A companion bill in the Senate, S. 1957, has the support of both Nebraska senators, Chuck Hagel and Ben Nelson.
The Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center is an outstanding resource and impressive facility. The non-profit organization associated with it includes a committed group of individuals who have spent many years making the center a reality and ensuring that it provides a meaningful and educational experience for those who visit. This legislative action is needed to fulfill the original plan for operating the visitor center.
The Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is truly unique. It is the only visitor center or museum in the U.S. to focus on the flora and fauna and scientific discoveries recorded by Lewis and Clark.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a watershed mark in American history. Two centuries later, the courageous story of these two outstanding explorers and the Corps of Discovery continues to inspire Americans of all ages. This legislation will help ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to learn about this remarkable journey.
Again, I would like to express my strong support for H.R. 3871. Thank you for holding this hearing and considering my comments.
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