Apostle Islands National Park Bill Re-Introduced by Rep. Tiffany

HAYWARD, Wis. (WBZH) – The Apostle Islands could become Wisconsin’s first National Park under legislation re-introduced by U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany this week.

Congressman Tiffany originally proposed the legislation over the summer, sparking significant opposition from Bayfield County officials and local residents.

The Bayfield County Board voted to oppose the original proposal, criticizing both the bill itself and the perceived lack of coordination between them and Congressman Tiffany. Some still expressed support for the idea of making the Apostle Islands a National Park, but wanted to iron out some of the details of how to make it possible.

Among the top concerns for local officials was an increase in tourism beyond their ability to manage it. Speaking on the bill over the summer, Bayfield Mayor Ted Dougherty said the city was already at its capacity between balancing its existing tourism industry and its need for more affordable housing.

The original legislation never advanced in Congress due to those concerns. Congressman Tiffany later announced he would amend the bill after discussing environmental and tribal rights concerns with local officials.

In a press release on Thursday, Congressman Tiffany announced he had officially re-introduced the legislation. “Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands are a national treasure and deserve the distinction of becoming the state’s first National Park,” he said. “Elevating the Apostle Islands would continue to preserve these Lake Superior treasures, honor our state’s heritage, and deliver lasting benefits to surrounding communities for generations to come.”

The proposed bill would elevate the Apostle Islands from its current designation as a National Lakeshore to a National Park. Management of the area would remain under the National Park Service. The press release also states that the bill affirms all current treaty rights and tribal sovereignty.