U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ben Ray Luján, along with Congressman Tony Gonzales, have announced the unanimous Senate passage of the Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act. This legislation authorizes the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land along the park’s western boundary.
Senator Cornyn emphasized Texas’ natural beauty, stating, “There is no better example of Texas’ natural beauty and vibrant wildlife than Big Bend National Park, and I’m glad the Senate has passed our bill unanimously so that all Americans can continue to enjoy it.”
Senator Luján highlighted the park’s significance in the Southwest: “Big Bend National Park is one of the many treasures in the Southwest. I’m proud that the Senate passed our bipartisan legislation to expand Big Bend National Park. This expansion will allow the National Parks Service to conserve the ecosystem along the Terlingua watershed for years to come.”
Congressman Gonzales noted, “Big Bend National Park is a natural treasure unlike any other. With the Senate passage of the Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act, we are one step closer to improving the National Park Service’s ability to preserve and protect critical habitats, history, and geology at Big Bend for generations to come.” He expressed his intent to work with colleagues in advancing this legislation through the House.
The act permits limited expansion by allowing NPS acquisition of land adjacent to Terlingua Creek via donation or exchange while prohibiting eminent domain or condemnation.
