# Plain Language Summary: Gila Wilderness 100th Anniversary Commemoration

This is a ceremonial resolution celebrating a major milestone in American conservation history. On June 3, 1924, the U.S. Forest Service officially set aside 755,000 acres in New Mexico as the Gila Wilderness—making it the very first officially designated wilderness area in the entire United States and the world. This resolution simply acknowledges that 100-year anniversary and recognizes the historical significance of that decision.

The resolution highlights how the Gila Wilderness became a model for protecting wild lands. Two Forest Service employees, Aldo Leopold and Arthur Carhart, championed the idea that some areas should be kept free from development and human structures, allowing people to experience nature in its natural state. Their work at Gila inspired the broader Wilderness Act of 1964, which created the national system of protected wilderness areas we have today. The resolution also acknowledges that Native American tribes, particularly the Apache and Mimbres people, have been the original stewards of this land for centuries.

It's important to understand what this resolution actually does: it doesn't change any laws or create new protections. It's essentially Congress saying "this was important, and we want to recognize it." The Gila Wilderness is already protected under existing laws and will continue to be managed to keep it free from permanent structures and development. This resolution is more about honoring the history and the people who fought to preserve wild spaces for future generations to enjoy.

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the designation of the Gila Wilderness.

Vasquez, Gabe

<p>This concurrent resolution commemorates the 100th anniversary of the designation of the Gila Wilderness, located in New Mexico.</p>