Nick Rahall: “H.R. 1011, the Virginia Ridge and Valley Act, was introduced by my friend and neighboring colleague, Representative Rick…”

“H.R. 1011, the Virginia Ridge and Valley Act, was introduced by my friend and neighboring colleague, Representative Rick Boucher. The bill designates nearly 40,000 acres in the Jefferson National Forest as wilderness and nearly 12,000 acres as National Scenic Areas. These natural spaces represent some of the true wild gems of the Commonwealth of Virginia and my State of West Virginia. H.R. 1011 is a strong bipartisan measure that is cosponsored by several other representatives from Virginia. H.R. 1011 also has broad support from Governor Tim Kaine, both Virginia Senators, four county boards of supervisors, local businesses, State organizations, hunters and faith groups. Each of the areas within H.R. 1011 were either recommended for wilderness designation in the 2004 Jefferson National Forest Plan or have been endorsed by the local board of supervisors of the relevant county. All the areas of H.R. 1011 are located within the district of Representative Boucher, who has been a true leader and fighter for this legislation and deserves the commendation of us all.”