WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large) today reintroduced the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act, legislation to extend the boundary of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the neighboring King Farm, which is currently owned by the Vermont Land Trust.
“The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a treasure for Vermont and our nation,” said Senator Sanders. “Vermont’s forests and working farms have always been vital to our economy and critical to our character as a state. I’m pleased this bill will continue Vermont’s conservation legacy by expanding this park and helping to conserve land for agriculture, forestry, and educational purposes for future generations.”
“The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a unique example of how decades of conservation and stewardship have shaped our landscape with Vermont Values. As Vermont’s first and only national park, it plays an important role in conservation and educating folks about our state’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Senator Welch. “By expanding the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the King Farm, our bill will create new enrichment opportunities and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate this historical treasure.”
“In Vermont, we care deeply about the preservation, stewardship, and the future of our parks and lands,” said Rep. Balint. “I’m proud to take action to strengthen this partnership and ensure that King Farm has the resources it needs for trail maintenance, conservation, and land management. I’m grateful to work with Senator Welch and Sanders and our shared commitment to our state’s outdoor recreation.”
Located in Woodstock, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park preserves a significant historical, agricultural, and natural landscape. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park became Vermont’s first and only national park when it opened its doors to the public in 1998. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park commemorates the historical contributions of its namesakes—George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Mary French Rockefeller—preserves Vermont’s proud agricultural heritage, and conserves native forestland ecosystems. It also provides countless educational opportunities for visitors, protects archaeological sites, and showcases historic architecture.
The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act would also codify the National Park Service Stewardship Institute housed at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to support educational programing, research, community engagement, and conservation efforts throughout the National Park System. Additionally, the bill would authorize the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to acquire the King Farm from willing property owners in the future, without requiring its sale.
The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act is endorsed by the Vermont Land Trust and the National Parks Conservation Association and has the support of the Town of Woodstock:
“The Town of Woodstock is happy with this legislation as we have an outstanding and cooperative relationship with the National Park Service and our residents enjoy all the activities and services they currently offer,” said Eric Duffy, Municipal Manager, Town of Woodstock. “The Park is a massive tourist draw and a vital part of our community.”
“We welcome the opportunity to partner more closely with NPS in enhancing access to land and programming at King Farm. The timing aligns perfectly with our efforts to raise funds and invest in King Farm as a place-based educational resource for learners of all ages, alongside community partners,” said Tracy Zschau, President and CEO, Vermont Land Trust.
“Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is one of the first places to champion conservation in America,” said Todd Martin, Northeast Senior Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association. “You can’t tell the story of Vermont without farming, and expanding the park boundary will help us do that by including the historic King Farm within the park boundary. One of the oldest working farms in Vermont, this expanded landscape will enhance public access and better connect trails to the town of Woodstock. We’re grateful to Senators Welch, Sanders and Congresswoman Balint for their leadership and unwavering support for Vermont’s beloved national park.”
Learn more about the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act.
Read the full text of the bill.
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