Guthrie, McConnell introduce bill to expand Mammoth Cave National Park

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A bill has been introduced to the House and U.S. Senate to expand Mammoth Cave National Park.

According to a release, congressman Brett Guthrie and U.S. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell introduced the Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act.

“As the world’s longest known cave system full of biodiversity and history, Mammoth Cave National Park is not only a treasure to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, but also a treasure to the entire world,” Guthrie said. “After discussions with Mammoth Cave National Park leadership and the local community, I introduced a bill to allow the park to acquire specific land to put cultural heritage artifacts and habitats under the care and expertise of the Mammoth Cave National Park Service. I’m proud to partner with leader McConnell on this effort to expand Mammoth Cave National Park for National Park Service employees and volunteers to conserve and people to enjoy for generations to come.”

The legislation would also allow 980 acres of land expansion that includes the Green River watershed, according to the release.

The property the park would acquire includes numerous cave passages, including Coach Cave and James Cave that have prehistoric and historic artifacts that the National Park System can conserve and manage.

McConnell added, “Kentucky is lucky to be home to an abundance of natural treasures, among them, Mammoth Cave National Park. This extensive cave network has been inspiring Kentuckians and drawing visitors from all corners of the globe for generations. Beyond its role in driving tourism to our Commonwealth, the park also plays a crucial role in the region’s economic growth, supporting good jobs for the people of Kentucky. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Guthrie on this important initiative once again which will expand the critical habitats that the National Park Service protects and preserves in the park.”