Bill introduced to expand Mammoth Cave National Park

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — A bill has been introduced in Kentucky to expand the boundaries of Mammoth Cave National Park.

A release obtained by Eyewitness News says Senator Mitch McConnell and Congressman Brett Guthrie introduced the bicameral Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act.

The bill would give the park the ability to acquire an additional 551.14 acres of land from the Nature Conservancy.

“Kentucky is lucky to be home to an abundance of natural treasures, among them, Mammoth Cave National Park. This extensive cave network has been inspiring Kentuckians and drawing visitors from all corners of the globe for generations. Beyond its role in driving tourism to our Commonwealth, the park also plays a crucial role in the region’s economic growth, supporting good jobs for the people of Kentucky,” said Senator McConnell. “I’m proud to partner with Congressman Guthrie on this important initiative once again which will expand the critical habitats that the National Park Service protects and preserves in the park.”

“Every year, Mammoth Cave National Park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and contributes nearly $90 million to our local economy,” said Congressman Guthrie. “This natural wonder has inspired people for thousands of years, playing a foundational role in the culture of our region. I am proud to introduce the Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act to expand protections for the cave system’s important biodiversity and rich history, ensuring that it can be studied, maintained, and enjoyed by future generations of Americans.”