For Immediate Release:

Thursday, June 28, 2001

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) today announced funds totaling $2.4 million for the Vancouver National Historic Reserve and $6 million for land acquisition in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. The funds, secured by Murray through the Senate Interior Appropriations bill, will be used for preservation and revitalization projects in the Columbia Valley. The Interior Appropriations bill was approved today by the Appropriations Committee and will be considered by the full Senate in early July.

The bill provides $2 million in funding from the National Park Service for preservation of the National Historic Reserve's West Barracks' Headquarters Building. An additional $400,000 was provided for operational support at the Reserve.

"Few places in America are as rich in historical significance as Vancouver," Senator Murray said. "I am pleased that these funds will be used to preserve the Historic Reserve's Headquarters and to educate visitors about Vancouver's unique past."

The bill also provides $6 million for the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. The funds will be used to purchase lands rich in cultural resources and delicate natural habitats in order to protect them from development. The 2001 Interior bill contained a provision giving the National Forest Service 3 years to purchase these lands. The $6 million secured by Senator Murray is particularly important due to these time restrictions.

"I am glad that this money will help the National Park Service and the Columbia Gorge to protect native resources and scenic areas in the Columbia Valley," said Murray. "While we still have quite a ways to go in protecting our environment, these funds are an important first step."

"I will continue to make continued federal support of these two projects a priority," Senator Murray said.