Rick Allen: “Much of the land within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Maine is protected today. However, several…”

“Much of the land within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Maine is protected today. However, several in-holdings and other areas of critical concern are not. The Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge consists of tidal creeks, coastal uplands, sandy dunes, salt ponds, and various types of wetlands that provide precious nesting and feeding habitat for a variety of migratory waterfowl, and a nursery for many shellfish and fin fish. The refuge also serves our communities by providing countless individuals and school groups the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the critical and unusual nature of Maine's coastal habitats. Mr. Chairman, there is an opportunity in fiscal year 2002 to purchase properties for the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Southern Maine is witnessing rapid development. Without preservation, coastal and wetland habitats are at great risk. I ask for the gentleman's assistance to identify funding for a $3 million appropriation from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. This would ensure that the opportunity to protect these properties is not lost.”