News Releases for July 2003
July 16, 2003
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Hoeven Meets With USDA Under Secretary Mark Rey, Congressional Delegation On Elkhorn Ranch Preserve
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today met with U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Mark Rey and U.S. Interior Assistant Secretary Craig Manson on a proposal to establish a state preserve through acquisition of private land that will protect and enhance the Elkhorn Ranch, site of President Theodore Roosevelt’s cattle operation in the North Dakota badlands. Hoeven also met today with the North Dakota’s congressional delegation to secure their support for the preserve concept.
“State management of the preserve will help move the preserve concept forward,” Hoeven said. “There is broad-based support for a preserve with state management authority. We will continue to work with the landowners and local officials to advance a plan that works for everyone.”
According to Hoeven, the proposal retains the scenic view and land uses for grazing and energy production, and at the same time allows for expansion of recreational uses on the property.
“The preserve concept includes state and federal management responsibilities that maintain the ranch’s historical value and allow multiple land uses that best meet our needs in North Dakota,” Hoeven said. “This is a well-balanced proposal with input from all the key players.”
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