The publication is reproduced in full below:
CELEBRATING THE IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE OF AMERICA'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY
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HON. FRANK J. MRVAN--
of indiana
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, March 15, 2022
Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, it is with immense pleasure that I rise today to recognize the Izaak Walton League of America on the organization's 100th Anniversary and to congratulate its members on their many accomplishments. In honor of the League's anniversary, I would like to commemorate its legacy of environmental advocacy.
The Izaak Walton League of America was formally incorporated on January 14, 1922, by fifty-four ambitious men with the goal of conserving our nation's natural resources. At the time, after recognizing the deterioration of our wildlife habitats, they took immediate action to ensure their enjoyment, benefit, and use for generations to come. Today, the League consists of 42,000 members and more than 200 community-based chapters, each committed to continuing the legacy and furthering the accomplishments of their predecessors. The League's members have worked hard to protect our nation's soil, air, wood, waters, and wildlife, and not only have they met their goal, they have exceeded it.
The League is responsible for the passage of the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, commonly known as the Pittman-Robertson Act, which was signed into law in 1937. This has provided billions of dollars in funding to wildlife restoration, habitat conservation, and hunter education. The League's proposal and advocacy for a federal agency to combat water pollution across the country led to the landmark Clean Water Act of 1972 which set federal standards for our nation's waters. Furthermore, the League's advocacy on behalf of Indiana Dunes National Park has provided Hoosiers in Northwest Indiana continued enjoyment and enrichment of our lakeshore. We must also commend the Izaak Walton League for its role in the creation of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, Superior National Forest, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and the Everglades and Isle Royale National Parks.
Many positive changes involving policies, legislation, and efforts to protect the environment have resulted because of the League's dedication to its communities. The League's members, known as ``Ikes,'' give their time to help build nature trails, restore stream banks, plant trees and rain gardens, keep family farms in business, and prevent the spread of invasive species. Keeping in mind how important it is to invest in the future, the League created a scholarship fund that awards $125,000 annually to students who are seeking their degrees in fields related to conservation and natural resources. When it comes to protecting our water sources, defending public lands, establishing farm and energy policy, protecting fish and wildlife, and conservation, the Izaak Walton League's members have proven that with diligence, teamwork, and an appreciation for nature, everyday citizens can have a major impact on the world.
Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Izaak Walton League of America on its 100th Anniversary. Through the years, the League's members have dedicated their time and efforts to ensure the conservation of our natural resources, and for this, they are to be recognized and commended.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 46
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