U.S. SENATE News:

ALBUQUERQUE — U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined his colleagues to introduce a resolution designating the week of Oct. 13-19, 2024, as National Wildlife Refuge Week.

“National Wildlife Week is an annual reminder of the important work to preserve the ecosystems that support and protect endangered species. I will continue fighting for policies that will conserve the full breadth of American wildlife, delivering on our moral responsibility to protect these wild places and species for future generations of New Mexicans to enjoy,” Heinrich said.

The resolution celebrates the diversity of ecosystems and wildlife found in our national wildlife refuges and the many recreational activities that they support, including hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Since President Theodore Roosevelt created the first U.S. national wildlife refuge in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has served a critical role in wildlife conservation. The national wildlife refuges have been strong drivers of economic growth for local communities across the country, generating billions of dollars each year.

With more than 572 refuges, 38 wetland management districts, and five marine national monuments – located in every state and territory of the United States – the National Wildlife Refuge System contributes more than $3.2 billion to local economies annually and supports more than 41,000 jobs.

The resolution was led by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Kennedy (R-La.). Alongside Heinrich, the resolution was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.).

The text of the resolution is here.