Alaska Delegation Introduces Resolution Honoring Denali National Park and Preserve Centennial

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, and U.S. Rep. Don Young, all R-Alaska, today introduced resolutions in their respective chambers to honor Denali National Park and Preserve’s upcoming centennial. The resolution designates Feb. 26, 2017, the park’s 100^th anniversary, as “Denali National Park and Preserve Day.” It reflects on the cultural history of the area, including traditional and Alaska Native uses before Denali was designated as a park, and traces many of the most notable developments over the past century.

“Denali National Park and Preserve contains North America’s highest mountain, breathtaking scenery, and abundant wildlife—making it one of the crown jewels of the entire United States,” Murkowski said. “At more than six million acres, the park is also a microcosm of Alaska’s unique history and culture. I am pleased to introduce this resolution with the rest of the Alaska delegation to honor this iconic place.”

“One hundred years ago, Charles Sheldon, who, with the help of the Boone and Crockett Club, relentlessly lobbied Congress, saw his dream turn into reality: President Woodrow Wilson established what’s now called the Denali National Park and Preserve,” Sullivan said. “I’m pleased to be celebrating the centennial of Denali National Park and proud to represent the park’s home state. Denali National Park is undoubtedly one of the most treasured parts of our national park system and its natural wonders have provided countless hours of awe and tranquility for Alaskans and for all Americans." 

“Alaska is the proud home to a number of world-class Parks and Preserves – offering a wealth of opportunity to sightsee, mountaineer and recreate – but we can all agree that Denali National Park and Preserve is the crown jewel,” Young said. “I am extremely proud of the fact that Alaska is home to North America’s tallest mountain, which stands at the heart of the Park and serves as a constant reminder to our state’s own greatness and majestic beauty. As we approach the centennial of the Denali National Park and Preserve, I’m honored to join Senators Murkowski and Sullivan in celebrating this important milestone.” 

Murkowski is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. A copy of the Senate resolution may be found here.

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