Press Releases
Dingell, Walberg Help Announce Expansion for River Raisin National Battlefield, Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
Monroe, MI,
July 29, 2016
U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12) and Tim Walberg (MI-07) today joined local officials in announcing a land donation from the Port of Monroe to the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to expand the River Raisin National Battlefield Park and the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. The donation will expand the Battlefield by 33 acres and the Refuge by 35 acres, linking the two sites together and connecting them with other areas in the community. “Today marks a milestone for two critical projects that highlight both the rich historical heritage of our great state and our shared commitment to conservation,” said Dingell. “This new land will help improve the Battlefield and ensure that more people learn about this critical piece of American history. It will also expand the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge for all those in our community who want to enjoy the outdoors while preserving the diverse wildlife who call the refuge home. Thank you to Dave Brose and the entire staff at the Port of Monroe for their generosity and leadership, and to everyone who has worked so hard to ensure these sites can be enjoyed for generations to come.” “We are blessed with a rich display of our nation’s history and natural habitat right here in our backyard,” said Walberg. “Thanks to public-private partnerships, the vision of Congressman John Dingell before me, and the hard work of many others, expansion of the River Raisin National Battlefield Park and the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge will further preserve and help more people enjoy this treasured land. I applaud the City of Monroe and the Port of Monroe for their continued efforts to enhance the community and the destinations it has to offer.” The Representatives were joined at the announcement by Chairman Dave Brose of the Port of Monroe; Monroe Mayor Robert Clark; John Hartig, Refuge Manager at the Detroit International Wildlife Refuge; Scott Bentley, Superintendent of the River Raisin National Battlefield Park; and National Park Service staff. |