Warner Robins Today

The U.S. House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands recently held a legislative hearing to review the bipartisan H.R. 8182, known as the Ocmulgee Mounds Park and Preserve Establishment Act. This bill is co-led by U.S. Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02). The proposed legislation aims to establish Ocmulgee Mounds and its surrounding areas in Middle Georgia as the state's first National Park and Preserve.

Rep. Scott expressed optimism about the progress, stating, "This hearing was further progress in making history by establishing Georgia's first National Park and Preserve." He appreciated the subcommittee for considering local support for preserving these sites.

Rep. Bishop highlighted the broader implications of this initiative: “This is another step forward towards realizing a longstanding dream that has broad, bipartisan support – not only in Middle Georgia but throughout the state.” He emphasized that this designation would enhance the area's profile, boost the local economy, and invite more visitors to appreciate its cultural significance.

Seth C. Clark, Macon-Bibb County Mayor Pro Tempore and Executive Director of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative, provided testimony during the hearing. Clark stated, "Congress’s actions today reiterate what we’ve always known: that the cultural and ecological gems of middle Georgia are some of the most nationally significant sites in the United States."

In parallel developments, the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources approved a companion bill to H.R. 8182. Senator Ossoff remarked on this milestone: “This is historic and unprecedented progress toward establishing Georgia’s first National Park." He acknowledged various leaders for their contributions to this effort.

Senator Reverend Warnock also praised this advancement: “Ocmulgee Mounds is a living testament to our intertwined histories... I’m proud to see this bipartisan, bicameral legislation taking one more step toward becoming law.”

Support from Middle Georgia remains strong as both bills advance through Congress with widespread backing from community members who value their cultural heritage.

Muscogee (Creek) Principal Chief David Hill shared his perspective: “The impact of this bipartisan and bicameral bill... will allow our ancestral Muscogee descendants to help tell the story of our homelands."

Retired Brigadier General John C. Kubinec also supported congressional efforts: “We’re thrilled to see Congress making progress on protecting... Robins Air Force Base by moving forward with this act."