Twenty-one beautiful islands, cliffs, sea caves, old lighthouses, and 12 miles of shoreline make up the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Photo by Apostle Island Cruises
WASHINGTON DC (WSAU-WAOW) – The Apostle Islands National Park and Preserve Act, introduced by Rep. Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin, has advanced out of the House Committee on Natural Resources with a narrow 20-17 vote. This legislation aims to designate the Apostle Islands as Wisconsin’s first National Park.
“The Apostle Islands are one of Wisconsin’s greatest natural treasures,” Tiffany said. He emphasized that upgrading their status would honor the state’s heritage and benefit local communities.
Chairman Bruce Westerman of Arkansas praised the initiative, highlighting the economic and experiential benefits for Americans and local communities. “I applaud Rep. Tiffany for his leadership to designate Wisconsin’s first and only national park,” Westerman said.
The Apostle Islands, currently a National Lakeshore since 1970, will maintain their boundaries, with Sand Island becoming a National Preserve to allow continued hunting access. Management will remain with the National Park Service.
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