Warner Robins Today

U.S. Representatives Austin Scott and Sanford D. Bishop, along with Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock, have reintroduced the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act. This bipartisan bill aims to designate the Ocmulgee Mounds and its surrounding areas in Middle Georgia as the state's first National Park and Preserve.

"Establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas as Georgia's first National Park and Preserve remains a top bipartisan initiative for all lawmakers and stakeholders involved," said Rep. Austin Scott. "The Ocmulgee Mounds are of invaluable cultural, communal, and economic significance to our state, and I am committed to keeping this initiative moving forward."

Rep. Bishop expressed his support by stating, “I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan bill. By establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve, we are highlighting over 17,000 years of history and culture as well as welcoming people from across the country to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty.”

Senator Ossoff noted past progress: “We made unprecedented progress last Congress toward creating Georgia's first ever National Park.” He emphasized collaboration with various stakeholders including Congressman Scott, Senator Reverend Warnock, Congressman Bishop, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and local leaders.

Senator Reverend Warnock highlighted the historical significance: “Ocmulgee Mounds is a living testament to our intertwined histories and a robust source of economic and cultural vitality.”

The House bill is supported by 11 other members of Georgia’s Congressional Delegation including Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter, Brian Jack, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson among others.

The area proposed for preservation has been continuously inhabited for over 12,000 years by indigenous peoples like the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. David Hill, Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation stated their steadfast support for the bill: “The opportunity to make the historic Ocmulgee Mounds a national park is so important to us because we have been included...”

Macon Mayor Pro Tempore Seth Clark highlighted regional benefits: “I cannot overstate the importance of this legislation to our region...this bipartisan legislation allows us to continue to grow the middle Georgia economy..."

Brigadier General John C. Kubinec emphasized military benefits: “Preserving undeveloped lands within the Ocmulgee River Corridor is critical to safeguarding Robins Air Force Base from incompatible land use…”

Chris Clark from the Georgia Chamber described it as an economic development tool while Jessica Walden from Greater Macon Chamber stressed its urgency for regional stability.

The text of this legislation can be accessed online.