Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H.R. 146, The Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. This legislation includes many important provisions that will protect and preserve America's public land heritage. It is a compilation of bills that enjoys broad bipartisan support in both Chambers of Congress, and I hope that the majority of the House will see fit to pass this omnibus legislation today.
Included in this package are several bills that highlight my home State of Oregon's scenic and ecological diversity, including the salmon-producing [Page: H3977] Coast Range waters of the Elk River in southeastern Oregon, the high desert badlands near Bend, the prairies overlooking the John Day River in central Oregon, and the high alpine forests of the Siskiyous.
One provision of particular importance to me adds additional land protections within the Columbia River Gorge, which I and many other Oregonians consider the crown jewel of Oregon's natural heritage. The Gorge Face wilderness additions reflect the continued commitment of this Congress to keep this remarkable area safe from inappropriate development.
I would also like to voice my support for the provisions that will protect nearly 127,000 acres around Mount Hood and almost 80 miles on nine free-flowing stretches of river, as well as create a 34,550-acre National Recreation Area. Mount Hood is one of the enduring symbols of Oregon's love of the outdoors, and this bill is an important signal to future generations that we wish to continue providing opportunities to enjoy all that nature has to give.
In these tough economic times, the protection of these natural spaces also supports Oregon's economy. Oregon's vibrant outdoor recreation industry supplies 73,000 jobs, and it injects almost $6 billion annually into Oregon's economy.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to reiterate my strong support for H.R. 146.
