Tim Bishop Named "Friend of the National Parks"
Congressman Tim Bishop has been named as a “Friend of the National Parks” by the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) for his work in Congress to protect and enhance America’s National Parks.
Bishop was awarded a gold-level “Friend” award for supporting legislation during the previous Congress that upheld the standards and integrity of the National Park System. Bishop also received the honor for his votes in the 108th and 111th Congress, no awards were given in the 109th and 110th Congresses due to a lack of park-related votes.
In total, 157 Members of Congress were honored in a ceremony yesterday in Washington. Bishop supported the NCPA position on six out of seven key bills, including votes against the expansion of hunting in National Parks and against legislation that would have limited the power of the President to establish National Monuments under the Antiquities Act.
Bishop voted for legislation authorizing a study to determine how the African-American troops known as the “Buffalo Soldiers” should be represented within the National Park System. The Buffalo Soldiers effectively served as the National Parks’ first “rangers” by playing a central role in protecting Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
“We are grateful that our members of Congress have demonstrated a solid commitment to preserving America’s national parks,” NPCA Acting President Theresa Pierno said. “As the National Park Service approaches its centennial in 2016, support from our members of Congress is essential to ensure places like Yellowstone, Gettysburg and the Everglades are preserved and protected for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.”
“Preserving America’s awe-inspiring natural, historical, and cultural treasures for the enjoyment of future generations is a sacred trust that we must protect with vigilance,” Congressman Bishop said, adding, “I am honored to be a Friend of the National Parks and will continue to defend our most precious places from those who do not recognize their true value to America.
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice of the American people in protecting and enhancing our National Park System. NPCA, its 800,000 members and supporters, and many partners work together to protect the park system and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for our children and grandchildren. For more information, visit npca.org.