HR1759: HR1759 Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Division of State Parks & Historic Sites; commend

26 LC 112 3971 House Resolution 1759 By: Representatives Anderson of the 10th, Rhodes of the 124th, Smith of the 70th, Greene of the 154th, Meeks of the 178th, and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing and commending the Georgia Department of Natural Re sources' Division of1 State Parks & Historic Sites; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Division of State Parks &3 Historic Sites manages the preservation of more than 60 properties across the state, including4 mountains, canyons, forests, waterfalls, lakes, battlefields, historic homes, Native American5 sites, and more; and6 WHEREAS, through these locations, the division maintains important habitats for plants and7 animals, provides the citizens of Georgia with places to enjoy the outdoors, and protects8 historic sites where future generations can learn about the past; and9 WHEREAS, the division continued to demonstrate its commitment t o this state in 202510 through the efforts of its exemplary staff and volunteers, all of whom dedicated innumerable11 hours of their time and energy across numerous operations; and12 WHEREAS, Hurricane Helene presented one of the most significant weather-related13 challenges in the division's history, causing immense damage within five of the division's six14 regions and stranding many Georgians without access to power and emergency services; and15 H. R. 1759 - 1 - 26 LC 112 3971 WHEREAS, in response to this unprecedented natural disaster, a total of 118 park rangers16 contributed more than 6,600 work hours to clear debris, assess damage, and assist with17 emergency operations, and many division sites worked through this recovery phase without18 running water or power for extended periods of time; and19 WHEREAS, the division has further expended efforts over the pas t year to improve the20 visitor experience at its sites by resolving areas of noncompliance with ADA standards and21 implementing electronic Park Pass sales, eliminating the need for guests to leave their vehicle22 or visit a kiosk to begin their activities and hikes; and23 WHEREAS, the golf courses managed by the division continue to exceed previous years in24 both revenue generated and number of rounds played, earning num erous awards and top25 rankings in recognition of their excellence; and26 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable division be appropriately27 honored during this special time.28 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that29 the members of this body recognize and commend the Georgia Depa rtment of Natural30 Resources' Division of State Parks & Historic Sites and extend best wishes for many more31 years of successful operation.32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized33 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the34 Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Division of State Parks & Historic Sites.35 H. R. 1759 - 2 -