FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 21, 2015
JUNEAU – Today Rep. Adam Wool (D-Fairbanks) and Rep. Scott Kawasaki (D-Fairbanks) introduced legislation to expand the popular Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge in Fairbanks. House Bill 70 would add four state owned parcels to the popular recreation area. Rep’s Wool and Kawasaki both cited their personal experiences with the refuge as inspiration for sponsoring this bill.
“I’m sure every Fairbanks family can tell you their own stories about Creamer’s Field, every summer my daughters join hundreds of Fairbanks youth for Camp Habitat at Creamer’s Field,” said Rep. Wool. “This is a unique Fairbanks attraction. Is there any place else where you can enjoy world class birdwatching, skijoring, and hunting just minutes away from downtown?”
The four parcels, proposed for inclusion into the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, are already managed for public use under the Refuge’s management plan, which balances many uses including dog mushing, hiking, hunting, trapping, and bird watching. A similar bill passed the Legislature last year, but was vetoed by Gov. Sean Parnell because it did not contain accurate legal descriptions. Rep’s Wool and Kawasaki worked with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to correct these errors in the new bill.
“As a kid I grew up exploring Creamer’s Field,” Rep. Kawasaki reminisced. “I am happy to cosponsor a bill to incorporate new parcels into the refuge. This is a pristine and peaceful area for bird watchers, mushers, skiers, and walkers alike. It should be preserved and enhanced for future generations.”
H.B. 70 has been referred to the House Resources Committee.
For additional information please contact David Dunsmore in Rep. Wool’s office at (907) 465-4976 or Amanda Frank in Rep. Kawasaki’s office at (907) 465-3466.
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