Wayne Gilchrest: “I am pleased to present this legislation to the House of Representatives to expand the boundaries of Blackwater National…”

“I am pleased to present this legislation to the House of Representatives to expand the boundaries of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, which is located in my Congressional District in Maryland. Garrett Island, which consists of approximately 198 acres, was the site of Maryland's second settlement in the 1600s. It is the only rocky island in the tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay system, and it is a vital link between the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. It also provides habitat to 44 different bird species, including eagles, common loons, tundra swans, and 14 kinds of ducks. I have visited Garrett Island a number of times, and there is no question that its rich history, geographic location and wildlife resource values make it an excellent candidate for inclusion within the National Wildlife Refuge system. As a Nation, we can ill afford to allow unique places like Garrett Island to be lost forever.”