S. 1131: Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act

The Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Establishment Act is a bill introduced to create a national park and preserve at the Ocmulgee Mounds site in Georgia. This bill involves several key actions:

Redesignation and Establishment

The existing Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park will be redesignated as the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park. This means that all references in laws and documents to the historical park will now refer to the newly named national park. Additionally, the bill establishes the Ocmulgee Mounds National Preserve once the necessary land has been acquired.

Land Acquisition

The bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire land for both the national park and the national preserve. The acquisition can be done through:

• Purchase from a willing seller
• Donation
• Exchange of land

Importantly, the bill prohibits the use of eminent domain to acquire this land, meaning the government cannot force landowners to sell their property.

Management and Administration

The national park and preserve will be managed as a single unit under the National Park System. The Secretary of the Interior will develop a management plan in consultation with an established advisory council. This advisory council will include representatives from the local tribe, the National Park Service, and other stakeholders.

Cultural and Natural Resources

The management plan will address the preservation of cultural sites and landscapes important to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, emphasizing the interpretation and protection of burial grounds and sacred sites. The bill aims to provide access to these sites for tribal members.

Hunting and Fishing Regulations

The Secretary will allow hunting in the national preserve and fishing in the preserve and park, following federal and state laws. However, there will be zones and periods where these activities may be restricted to ensure public safety and resource management.

Employment Preferences

The Secretary is tasked with establishing employment policies that give preference to members of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for staff positions within the park and preserve.

Advisory Council and Cultural Consultation

A new advisory council will be formed to assist in guiding the management and preservation efforts. This council will include members representing various stakeholders and will focus on incorporating tribal interests in the planning and regulatory processes.

Trust Land for the Tribe

The bill designates approximately 126 acres owned by the tribe to be held in trust, meaning the land will be managed by the federal government for the benefit of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

Funding

The bill authorizes the necessary appropriations to implement its provisions, although the specific amounts are not defined.

Timeline for Implementation

The Secretary must develop a management plan for the national park and preserve within three years of the bill's enactment, ensuring that key stakeholders are consulted throughout the process.

Military Overflights

The bill does not restrict military overflights or related activities above the national park and preserve, ensuring that existing military operations can continue.

Relevant Companies

None found.