mr. gridge and mr. hastings in supporting this bill out of the committee in september. i want to thank them and now former congressperson, senator markey's help, in passing this bill last congress. i very much appreciate their persistence and their help to get this bill passed and into law. i know the people of maine will appreciate their commitment, too. this bill was proposed by the folks back home, the same people who live and work around the york river and who care deeply about it. this bill would allow organizations working around the york river to partner with the national park service to conduct a study that would provide the information that is vital to making smart decisions about the future of the york river and its communingts. i have heard from small business owners, community groups, state and local governments, state and local land trusts, fishermen, hunters, school representatives and historical and environmental conservationists, all agree that recognizing and protecting the river's important and unique qualities. there are many unique features of the yo