Brief Description: Supporting the establishment of the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail.

Sponsors: Senators Parlette, Morton, Mulliken, Delvin and Sheldon.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation: 1/24/05, 1/27/05 [DP].

Passed Senate: 2/16/05, 48-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, OCEAN & RECREATION

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Jacobsen, Chair; Fraser, Hargrove, Morton, Oke, Spanel and Swecker.

Staff: Vic Moon (786-7469)

Background: The impact of the ice age floods which occurred 12,000 years ago can be seen today in Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. In 2001 the National Park Service finished a study of the flood events and their effect on the region. In the report to Congress an Ice Age Floods Geologic Trail was proposed. Similar national trails regarding natural or historic events are found in other areas and they have a direct effect on tourism. Congress is currently considering H.R. 4944 which would authorize the Parks Service to go ahead and work with all public and private parties to create the trail. Land acquisition would only amount to about 25 acres for an interpretive center to be created in the future.

Summary of Bill: The Washington State Legislature asks the President and Congress to establish the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Testimony For: The request to Congress to designate the trail is timely. The trail is similar to others in that there will be a significant tourism benefit and the system fits perfectly with our states efforts.

Testimony Against: None.

Who Testified: PRO: Senator Linda Parlette, 12th District; Ed Triezenberg.