NAN A. S. HAYWORTH: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4170, introduced by the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), the chairman of the Committee on…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4170, introduced by the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), the chairman of the Committee on Resources, and subsequently amended by the Committee on Resources, would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to establish volunteer programs in the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Bureau of Reclamation and the Office of the Secretary. With this authority, these four bureaus would be able to parallel the successful volunteer programs of the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to recruit volunteers to assist with or facilitate the activities within these agencies. Mr. Speaker, over 200,000 volunteers annually serve as campground hosts, clear trail, help with seasonal bird surveys, collect new information for maps and assist with many other day-to-day activities. Mr. Speaker, simply put, volunteers provide the Department of the Interior vital services to help it meet its mission responsibilities. Volunteer programs within the Department also provide outstanding opportunity for community service and public involvement in conservation programs. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4170 is supported by the majority and the minority of the Committee on Resources and the administration. I urge adoption of the bill.”