Recognizing Dr. William Clark

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. William Clark, who is stepping down as chair of the Okefenokee Swamp Park Board of Trustees after 15 years of hard work and dedicated service.

Since 2010, Dr. Clark has advanced the mission of Okefenokee Swamp Park, promoting a community connection with nature and preserving its ecological health through stewardship, education, and outdoor recreation.

While serving as chairman, Dr. Clark was instrumental in expanding the park's mission to promote tourism and education. Under his leadership, the park strengthened partnerships with organizations such as the University of Georgia, focusing on conservation efforts to maintain the swamp's native alligator population.

He was instrumental in expanding ecotourism by acquiring the visitor concession at the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge headquarters and the nomination by the U.S. Department of the Interior as the next American World Heritage site.

After his successful tenure in this role, Dr. Clark has expressed enthusiasm for this transition and remains confident in the ongoing excellence of the Okefenokee Swamp Park board.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Clark for his commitment to improving the Okefenokee Swamp Park and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

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