I am strongly committed to policies that will preserve the Commonwealth’s natural animal habitats, national forests, lakes, and rivers.  
 

Virginia Ridge and Valley Act 

I cosponsored the successful Virginia Ridge and Valley Act of 2007 to create new Wilderness Areas and National Scenic Areas and expand six existing Wilderness Areas in portions of Bland, Craig, Grayson, Giles, Lee, Montgomery and Smyth counties within the Jefferson National Forest.  This law enhances the tourism economy of the region by encouraging travelers to visit the protected and untouched landscape of Southwest Virginia. 
 

Roadless Area Conservation Rule


I was an original cosponsor of bipartisan legislation that would codify the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule and would protect 383,500 acres of roadless areas in Virginia’s national forests from commercial logging and road-building.  Roadless designations by the U.S. Forest Service provide a sanctuary for native wildlife, clean water for hundreds of communities, and offer some of the best recreational spots for hunters, fisherman, and outdoor enthusiasts. Due to our continued efforts, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced in May 2009 that all new roads built within our national forests must receive his explicit approval.  This policy will remain in effect until the status of the Roadless Area Conservation Rule is resolved. 
 

National Wildlife Refuges 

Virginia is home to fourteen National Wildlife Refuges, which protect the habitats of many threatened and endangered species of plants and animals.  I have worked with my colleagues in the Virginia delegation to advance legislation that expands existing refuges by acquiring land from willing sellers on the Eastern Shore, the Rappahannock River, the James River, and Back Bay in Virginia Beach.  Preserving these resources is important for maintaining biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy. 
 

Support from Recovery Act Funds 

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provided more than $27 million in 37 projects to upgrade facilities, extend hiking trails and promote energy efficiency at Virginia's natural and historic landmarks.