Jon L. Christensen: “I rise in support, Mr. Speaker, of H.R. 700, a bill to reauthorize the Asian Elephant Conservation Act. I would also…”

“I rise in support, Mr. Speaker, of H.R. 700, a bill to reauthorize the Asian Elephant Conservation Act. I would also like to recognize and applaud the bill's sponsor, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Saxton), for his continued leadership in protecting these magnificent, yet imperiled animals. Unlike African elephants, the steep decline in the population of Asian elephants was not widely known until 1997. Sadly, we have learned that this population, at one time flourishing, is now fragmented into ever-shrinking remnant populations scattered across 13 countries throughout Southern and Southeast Asia. Fortunately, the Asian Elephant Conservation Act has helped range states the address the multiple threats which have contributed to the decline of this keystone species in the wild. Grants initiated under the Asian Elephant Conservation Program have provided valuable financial assistance to impoverished areas. These funds have supported a wide assortment of projects within range states, including conservation, planning, scientific research, education and community outreach, as well as anti-poaching and law enforcement activities. Progress on the ground is being made.”