HR0928 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0928 LRB102 28650 ECR 40537 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to honor and recognize the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the official opening of the Crab Orchard National Refuge; and

WHEREAS, The 44,000 acre refuge was established in 1947 after its original function as a ordnance manufacturing plant producing ammunition and explosives for troops during World War Two came to an end; and

WHEREAS, The refuge contains three lakes, Crab Orchard Lake, Little Grassy Lake, and Devils Kitchen Lake, and contains 23,000 acres of land for recreational use, including 21,000 acres dedicated as a wildlife preserve; and

WHEREAS, The refuge is home to a wide, diverse group of flora and fauna from Southern Illinois, including over 700 plant species, 245 bird species, 33 mammal species, 63 fish species, and 44 reptile and amphibian species; the refuge is truly a sanctuary for all kinds of species; and

WHEREAS, The refuge also provides an endless amount of recreational opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty of the wildlife, including famous hiking trails, campgrounds open during all four seasons, fishing and swimming available from the bank or by boat, horseback riding, hunting, and archery; the refuge is for all those who love the natural beauty of the great outdoors; and

WHEREAS, For the last 75 years, the refuge's mission has been to administer, protect, and enhance the natural resources and ecosystem within its boundaries, and this mission will continue for the next 75 years and more; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge on its 75th anniversary of providing visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and ecological wonders that Southern Illinois has to offer; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the director of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge as a symbol of our esteem and respect.