Joseph T. Burns: “today, I join my colleagues Senators Cantwell, Craig, Murray, and Smith, in support of S. 206, the Ice Age Floods…”

“today, I join my colleagues Senators Cantwell, Craig, Murray, and Smith, in support of S. 206, the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Designation Act of 2005. Thousands of years ago, Glacial Lake Missoula broke through its ice dam, releasing cataclysmic floods that forever changed the terrain of Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. This natural phenomenon is responsible for the unique beauty of western Montana. However, few people know the history behind our rugged landscape. The Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Designation Act of 2005 designates a trail, primarily public roads and highways, from Missoula, Montana to the Pacific Ocean, following the path of the great floods. Through this legislation, the National Park Service is responsible for coordinating public and private sector entities to present the story of the ice age floods to the public. Many folks in my great State of Montana, including members of the Glacial Lake Missoula Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute, look forward to working with the National Park Service in a joint effort to educate the public. Additionally, designation of the Ice Age Floods Trail provides a tremendous opportunity for tourism and economic development in Montana. I am also pleased S. 206 takes into consideration the concerns of local citizens and private property owners by limiting Federal land acquisition to 25 acres. These acres will be used only for administrative and public information purposes.…”