Members of Tennessee and North Carolina delegations offer resolution to recognize 75th Anniversary

WASHINGTON – A group of U.S. senators and congressmen from Tennessee and North Carolina introduced resolutions today in both the House and Senate to recognize the 75th anniversary of the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The resolutions were introduced by Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), and Kay Hagan (D-N.C.); and by Congressmen Phil Roe (R-Tenn. 1) and Jimmy Duncan (R-Tenn. 2).

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, attracting over nine million visitors each year.  The park today covers approximately 521,621 acres of land in both states, making it the largest protected area in the eastern United States.

“I grew up and live in the backyard of the Smokies, so I’m especially proud to honor its 75th anniversary,” said Alexander, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Interior Subcommittee which oversees funding for the park.  “The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in our country, and we must all work together to keep it pristine for future generations of hikers, fishers, and outdoor enthusiasts.”

“The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been, and will forever be, an integral part of North Carolina’s history and culture,” said Burr. “For 75 years the park has been an outdoor classroom for all Americans, a place where all generations can come and discover the wonder of nature.  Congratulations to all of the Park Rangers and Staff that help preserve this magnificent mountain range for us and generations to come.  Happy 75th Anniversary to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”

“I love being outdoors and feel very fortunate to have grown up in East Tennessee with the Smokies right in my backyard,” said Corker. “My real introduction to the park came when I was a student at UT, and later when I hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail. These mountains are truly a national treasure, and I look forward to joining my fellow Tennesseans as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”