The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large) introduced the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments, legislation that extends the boundary of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park to include the neighboring King Farm, which is currently owned by the Vermont Land Trust.
“The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a treasure for Vermont and our nation,” said Senator Sanders in the news release Monday, Sept. 23. “Vermont’s forests and working farms have always been vital to our economy and critical to our character as a state. I’m pleased this bill will continue Vermont’s conservation legacy by expanding this park and helping to conserve land for agriculture, forestry, and educational purposes for future generations.”
“The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a unique example of how decades of conservation and stewardship have shaped our landscape and Vermont values. As Vermont’s first and only national park, this park plays an important role in conserving and educating folks about our state’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Senator Welch. “By expanding the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to include the King Farm, our bill will create new enrichment opportunities and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate this historical treasure.”
“In Vermont, we care deeply about the preservation, stewardship, and the future of our parks and lands,” said Rep. Balint. “I’m proud to take action to strengthen this partnership and ensure that King Farm has the resources it needs for trail maintenance, conservation, and land management. I’m grateful to work with Senator Welch and Sanders and our shared commitment to our state’s outdoor recreation.”
Located in Woodstock, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP preserves a significant historical, agricultural, and natural landscape. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP became Vermont’s first and only national park when it opened its doors to the public in 1998. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP commemorates the historical contributions of its namesakes—George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Mary French Rockefeller—preserves Vermont’s proud agricultural heritage, and conserves native forestland ecosystems. It also provides countless educational opportunities for visitors, protects archaeological sites, and showcases historic architecture.
The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments would expand resources for the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP’s Stewardship Institute to support educational programing, research, community engagement, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the bill would authorize the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP to acquire the King Farm from willing property owners in the future, without requiring its sale.
The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Establishment Act Amendments Act is endorsed by the Vermont Land Trust and has the support of the town of Woodstock.
“The town of Woodstock is happy with this legislation, as we have an outstanding and cooperative relationship with the National Park Service and our residents enjoy all the activities and services they currently offer,” said Eric Duffy, municipal manager for the town of Woodstock. “The Park is a massive tourist draw and a vital part of our community.”
“We welcome the opportunity to partner more closely with NPS in enhancing access to land and programming at King Farm. The timing aligns perfectly with our efforts to raise funds and invest in King Farm, alongside community partners,” said Tracy Zschau, president and CEO of Vermont Land Trust.
