National Park upgrade for Apostle Islands would not impact treaties with Indian nations

Did you know that 30 states, including Minnesota, Michigan, and Indiana, have National Parks? So, why shouldn't Wisconsin join their ranks?

While landmarks like Yellowstone’s geysers and Yosemite’s El Capitan are renowned, the Apostle Islands offer their own extraordinary features of sandstone cliffs, historic lighthouses, and ice caves that merit the same kind of recognition. That's why I am seeking to elevate the Apostle Islands from a National Lakeshore to Wisconsin's first National Park.

Since becoming a National Lakeshore in 1970, the Apostle Islands have been a treasured spot for recreationalists and a key part of Wisconsin’s public lands. This stunning archipelago offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history deserving of greater recognition.

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Elevating its status would not alter its existing boundaries but would reclassify it, much like the successful transition of Indiana Dunes in 2019. Sand Island would be designated as a National Preserve, ensuring that hunting access remains protected – a model similar to the recent designation of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia.

Proposed designation would not impact Native treaties

We’ve also heard misplaced concerns that this well-deserved new designation would somehow impact long-standing Indian treaties . Let me be very clear: It would not – something that the National Park Service themselves confirmed with us during consultations on the legislation before it was introduced. That said, to help allay any misplaced fears, I plan to amend the bill to explicitly state that nothing in the legislation should be construed to change or modify any existing treaty obligation.

Not only would this change bring National Park status to Wisconsin, it would also secure ongoing environmental conservation and greater prosperity. Historically, similar transitions from national lakeshores to national parks, such as the 2019 reclassification of Indiana Dunes, have proven substantial. For example, in 2018 while still a National Lakeshore, Indiana Dunes had 1.75 million visitors who spent $77 million in nearby communities, which in turn supported around 936 jobs. By 2022, as a National Park, visitation surged to 2.8 million, generating $141 million in local spending and supporting 1,685 jobs.

Applying this model to the Apostle Islands could potentially double the economic impact in surrounding communities. Many businesses in and around national parks are small mom-and-pop shops, employing local people who have a passion for the outdoors and deep roots in the community.

Federal lands can help support and sustain local businesses

I have firsthand experience with this. After owning and operating Wilderness Cruises near the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest for 20 years, I’ve seen how federal lands can support small businesses. Increased tourism helps bolster Main Street economies, create new jobs, generate revenue, and attract new investment that can help expand local opportunities.

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Additionally, reclassifying the Apostle Islands as a National Park would likely bring in additional federal resources for their preservation. National Park status often comes with increased funding for conservation programs and infrastructure improvements. Five years after the Indiana Dunes National Park designation, for example, NPS funding was up over 9%.

The one-of-a-kind charm of the Apostle Islands is evident to all who visit. Wisconsin deserves its first National Park, and the crown jewels of Lake Superior are a perfect candidate for this esteemed designation. This is a real opportunity to showcase our state’s natural heritage and make a lasting, positive impact on the surrounding communities for generations to come.

Tom Tiffany represents the Seventh District of Wisconsin in the House of Representatives.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: National Park upgrade for Apostle Islands would not impact treaties with Indian nations