Dear Friend, 

Knowing of our mutual interest in environmental conservation and combating climate change, I wanted to share an update about my recent fact-finding trip to Yellowstone National Park. Last week, I joined my colleagues from the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Caucus (SEEC) to travel to Wyoming and talk with park scientists, rangers, and volunteers about how climate change endangers Yellowstone and all our iconic public lands.

The climate challenges facing Yellowstone are daunting and share much in common with those we are encountering at home in the Granite State. Warmer and wetter springs mean snow is melting off the mountains much earlier and more rapidly, causing significant flooding that jeopardizes wildlife habitats and important public infrastructure. Higher temperatures bring more invasive species that often threaten the long-term health of critical species native to the region. Longer, hotter summers have resulted in a more intensive forest fire season. Due to the high density of forests in Yellowstone, fires can spread up to five miles a day and burn for weeks. Unfortunately, these issues only scratch the surface of the impacts of climate change.  

While the realities of climate change are sobering, I was deeply heartened to see the commitment of the scientists and staff in the National Park Service to protect this majestic area for the enjoyment and education of future generations. They are deploying creative and fascinating plans to mitigate the impact of climate change on the Park. Nearly a century and a half ago, Yellowstone became the world’s first national park. It was incredibly powerful to see the enduring resilience of Yellowstone’s ecosystem firsthand. However, there is much more we can all do. In Congress, I am committed to working with my colleagues on the Energy & Commerce Committee, the Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, and SEEC, to fight climate change, conserve our natural resources, and spur our nation’s transition to 100% renewable energy.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me in Concord at 603-226-1002 or Washington at 202-225-5206 to learn more about my legislative work on this issue and share your opinions and priorities. 

Sincerely,