MEDIA ADVISORY

Secretary Norton to Testify to House Committee on Appropriations on FY 2005 Budget for Interior

(WASHINGTON) - Interior Secretary Gale Norton will testify on President Bush's proposed fiscal year 2005 budget for the Department of the Interior at a hearing of the House Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 10 a. m. in the House Rayburn Building, Room B-308.

Norton will discuss major initiatives in the president's request, including strategies to develop stronger conservation partnerships with states, tribes, local communities, and citizens to develop healthy lands, thriving communities and dynamic economies.

"The $11 billion proposal embodies the President's vision of a new environmentalism -- one built on the principles of entrepreneurship, local action and respect for private property," Norton said.

"It underscores his commitment to Interior's strategic missions of protecting natural and cultural resources, serving communities, improving access to recreational opportunities, and managing our water and energy resources."