WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Xavier Becerra (CA-31) and Jim Leach (IA-2) introduced H.Res. 489, “Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the National Audubon Society”, which congratulates the meritorious organization for its countless successes over the last century, Friday October 7, 2005.
“It is with great admiration and pride that I ask my colleagues to join me today in saluting the National Audubon Society for its visionary mission in inspiring millions of people of all ages to celebrate and protect birds, nature and life,” Rep. Becerra said.
Incorporated January 5, 1905, the National Audubon Society is one of America’s largest and longest-lived conservation groups dedicated to the protection of birds, other wildlife, and their habitats. One of the organization’s newest additions, the Audubon Center at Ernest E. Debs Park is located in the 31st Congressional District and is a unique example of how Audubon effectively connects people to nature. Focused on sustainable features such as renewable energy sources, water conservation, recycled building materials, and native landscaping, the Center is a safe haven for 200 species of birds and animals and 282 acres of wilderness.
“Thanks to the collaboration of public and private funding, Angelinos today can appreciate a unique experience in their own backyard at Debs Park,” Rep. Becerra said. “Working families, who often do not have the time or the means for nature trips, now have the option of utilizing the educational and family programs offered by the Center”.
The text of H.Res.489 is as follows:
Resolution
Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the National Audubon Society
Whereas the welfare of the citizens of the United States is greatly enriched by the purposeful endeavors of individuals and organizations committed to the preservation and protection of our environment, as well as the enhancement of, and appreciation for, our natural surroundings;
Whereas the National Audubon Society, the Nation’s largest bird conservation organization, is celebrating its centennial year in 2005, having been incorporated on January 5, 1905, by dedicated women and men eager to save the Great Egret, as well as other birds killed for their feathers to support the fashion industry, from extinction;
Whereas the founders of the National Audubon Society withstood violence and opposition to organize one of America’s longest-lived and most successful conservation groups dedicated to the protection of birds, other wildlife, and their habitats through advocacy of environmental policy and education based on sound science;
Whereas the dedicated efforts of National Audubon Society volunteers, members, and staff in support of landmark bird protection legislation have aided in the effort to rescue the following species from the threat of extinction: Bald Eagles; Egrets; Ibis; Herons; Flamingos; Whooping Cranes; Peregrine Falcons; Brown Pelicans; Roseate Spoonbills; Atlantic Puffins; and Condors;
Whereas the National Audubon Society lent critical support to the protection of wildlife habitats through the passage of legislation, such as the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 and the Act popularly known as the Everglades Restoration Act, the identification of 1,800 habitats critical to birds’ survival through the National Audubon Society’s Important Bird Areas program, and the establishment of private sanctuaries;
Whereas the National Audubon Society played a critical role in the establishment of the Nation’s first wildlife refuge, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, in 1903, and the subsequent protection of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge and other refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System;
Whereas birds are excellent indicators of environmental health, as impacted by such factors as pollution, climate change, toxins, and habitat loss, as well as our own long-term well being, and it is in our best interest to heed such signs of processes that may ultimately affect human populations; and
Whereas recognizing that the National Audubon Society’s national network of community based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in positive conservation experiences, and are integral to maintaining the health and beauty of the United States: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
(1) recognizes the 100th anniversary of the National Audubon Society;
(2) congratulates the National Audubon Society on achievement of this milestone; and
(3) encourages the National Audubon Society to continue its important work to ensure that the next 100 years of conservation are a success.
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