Wilderness designations should not be the result of a quid pro quo. They should rise or fall on their own merits.

Simply put, I believe we should not seek the lowest common denominator when it comes to wilderness and saddle a wilderness designation with exceptions, exclusions, and exemptions.

Wilderness is not defined by the absence of certain activities, but rather by the presence of certain unique and invaluable characteristics.

We all understand that compromise is part of the legislative process, yet at the same time, I would submit that wilderness is not for sale.

Madam Speaker, I have spent more than half my life as a member of the Resources Committee. In that time I have supported numerous wilderness designations. In fact, I cannot recall ever opposing a wilderness bill.

Today, our actions must be motivated only by our intense desire to achieve a just and lasting peace. The compassion and charity of the American people should be reflected in this legislation, though sadly, they are silenced.