Published November 2001 — Download PDF of the original newspaper column
Byrd's-Eye View
By U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd
West Virginia: How Majestic and How Grand
"Oh, the West Virginia hills! How majestic and how grand." These words, from "The West Virginia Hills," one of the Mountain State's official songs, capture the sentiment not only of many West Virginia natives, but also of the thousands of tourists who flock to the state to view its scenic wonders. From its mountains to its rivers, from its flora to its abundant wildlife, West Virginia is blessed with natural beauty. I have long sought to preserve our state's God-given treasures. This year, I was successful in adding funds to appropriations legislation that was recently signed into law for two of West Virginia's scenic gems: the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and the New River Gorge National River. As the home to 40 different wetland and upland plant communities which support more than 580 species of plants, the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest and most diverse freshwater wetland areas in central and southern Appalachia. The diversity of plants and habitats supports an equally varied wildlife of more than 290 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The $7.8 million that I added to the legislation will allow the Canaan Valley Refuge to expand by more than 12,000 acres, providing the refuge with important new resources and broadening what is already one of the nation's most diverse ecological communities. The legislation also provides the refuge with $875,000 for repairs to dilapidated infrastructure, such as roads and parking areas. Equally impressive is the New River Gorge National River. Tens of thousands of people from across the country annually visit the area's 70,000 acres, which run along one of the continent's oldest rivers. The $6.8 million that I added to the bill will allow for the expansion of this West Virginia wonder by 6,800 acres. An additional $1 million will allow for improvements to visitor access and facilities, such as upgrades to the river's Grandview Visitor Center. It was West Virginia's natural wonders that inspired these words: "If o'er sea o'er land I roam, Still I'll think of happy home, And my friends among the West Virginia hills." I am proud to have added the funding that will help to preserve the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and the New River Gorge National River -- just two of the many examples of our state's scenic beauty that lie nestled within the West Virginia hills. November 28, 2001