WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, released the following statement on the 99th anniversary of the National Park Service, which is today, August 25, 2015.
"Our national parks not only celebrate some of the most beautiful natural places in our country, they are also part of the fabric of our democracy. For nearly 100 years, the National Park Service has managed the treasured places that our families go to year after year to relax, explore, and learn about our outdoor heritage.
"From Carlsbad Caverns in southern New Mexico to Capulin Volcano in the northeast corner of the state, our national parks contribute New Mexico's growing outdoor recreation economy. Outdoor recreation activities in New Mexico generate $6.1 billion annually in consumer spending and are also directly responsible for 68,000 New Mexico jobs.
"I join New Mexicans and the rest of the country in celebrating the National Park Service's 99th anniversary."