Budget Cuts Threaten the U. S. National Arboretum

NCAGC President Rilla Crane asks you write to Chairman in the House and Senate

            State President Rilla Crane asks that garden club members write to Congress to save the U.S. National Arboretum from budget cuts. She suggests messages be kept simple and honest, limiting them to no more than one or two paragraphs to be read quickly.  Rilla provided the following list of topics that may be addressed in the writer’s own words:

* The Arboretum is a MUST SEE destination for international visitors from around the world, year round, to the Nation's Capital.  Let us be proud of the impression they receive.

* The Arboretum serves as a horticultural research garden for everyone.

* Progress on plans for added development and renovations underway at the Arboretum will not take place.

* As development encroaches on our lands, save this valuable haven of beauty and educational horticultural source for young and old,

* Established valuable trees and other plants will suffer or die with budget cuts,

* The Arboretum is a wildlife sanctuary for small animals, birds, bees, butterflies, bugs, etc.

* The Arboretum is an oasis of solitude and beauty for all to enjoy.

Send your concerns as soon as possible to both of the following members of Congress:

The Honorable Rosa DeLauro

Chairman, Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,

Food and Drug Administration

Rayburn House Office Bldg., Room 2262

Washington, DC 20515

The Honorable Herb Kohl

Chairman, Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,

Food and Drug Administration

United States Senate

Hart Senate Office Building, Room 330

Washington, DC 20510