Political Quotes

“As chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry, I was proud to join with a bipartisan group of my House colleagues yesterday in introducing H. Con. Res. 144, recognizing the 75th anniversary of the American Tree Farm System. The American Tree Farm System is operated by the American Forest Foundation. It is the largest and oldest sustainable forestry program for forest owners. The program was created in 1941 in order to engage and support landowners to ensure the health and safety of the forests, especially in facing wildfires in the Western States. This resolution commends the work of tree farmers and volunteers across the Nation who have participated in the program over the past 75 years, especially their investments in time, manpower, and personal funds to further sustainable forestry practices. Mr. Speaker, family forest owners own the largest share of forests in the United States. These forests provide for Americans well beyond their properties, as they help to maintain clean water, clean air, wood supply, wildlife habitat, jobs, and recreational opportunities. Programs such as the American Tree Farm System help these forest owners continue to steward our lands and protect those benefits. ____________________”