APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) The future of the Fox River was the subject of debate tonight in the Valley. Members of the Fox-Wisconsin Heritage Parkway have been working for more than two years to get legislators in Washington to formally recognize and preserve the area.
But tonight, a Tea Party group is questioning the efforts that might have on taxpayers. The area in question stretches 15 counties in Wisconsin from Green Bay to Portage and through to the Mississippi River. Activists want to preserve the history and landscape of the Fox River. Supporters say a "National Heritage" designation could not only protect the area, it could boost tourism.
There are currently only 49 other National Heritage areas in the US. None are in Wisconsin. But members of the Fox Valley Initiative worry for the 1.3 million living near the river. They believe farming and logging businesses could also be impacted, especially if environmental protections come with the distinction.
A draft of the heritage legislation was introduced in the Senate and House in August of 2010. The Fox Valley Initiative is urging the community to call Congressmen and U.S. Senators before the election this fall.
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Ed K.
September 21, 2012 at 1:16 am
