Sen. Carper Statement on Release of Comprehensive Conservation Plan for Prime Hook

GEORGETOWN, Del.  – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released a statement on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s release of the Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge in Sussex County. In March 2012, Delaware’s Congressional Delegation sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to urge his agency to release the long-delayed plan. His statement follows:
 
“After years of planning and revisions, the release of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is welcome progress. Since the CCP process began nearly seven years ago, the ecologically diverse refuge and surrounding area has undergone significant changes and damage, as recently as this fall during Superstorm Sandy. This plan represents a deliberative and thoughtful management strategy for Prime Hook, one that incorporates the best available science, community participation and a long term vision that will sustain this national treasure for the good of both Prime Hook and the adjacent communities for generations to come. Moreover, this plan will help guide short-term repairs for damage sustained during Superstorm Sandy and long-term plans to stabilize and restore this vital habitat. Moving forward, I will continue to join with the community, state officials and other stakeholders in working with U.S. Fish and Wildlife to implement this plan and continue to protect this state and federal asset.”
 
The Final CCP Draft will have a 30-day review period beginning today, December 28, 2012.  The plan can be downloaded at http://www.fws.gov/northeast/primehook/.
 
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