Interior Bill Provides Additional Funding to Expand Boundary at Fort Davis National Historic Site

Statement by NPCA Regional Director Suzanne Dixon

“The National Parks Conservation Association applauds Congress’ support of the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the provision of $500,000 for the acquisition of land critical to the protection in perpetuity of the historic view shed at Fort Davis National Historic Site. This funding, included in the FY10 Interior Appropriations bill which passed yesterday, will protect land adjacent to the fort from incompatible development and ensures that the historic integrity of the park’s landscape will remain unimpaired for our children and grandchildren.

“Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson and Representative Ciro Rodriguez have both been at the forefront of efforts to protect and enhance Fort Davis and we owe this victory for historic preservation to their tireless leadership.

“Fort Davis was an important West Texas frontier outpost and served as the home to all four regiments of black regulars (aka Buffalo Soldiers) who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War. Preservation of the view shed will help the Park Service continue to adequately interpret this important history for local residents and all Americans.”

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