The idea for the bill, which designates a National Park Service trail in Glover Archbold Park in the District of Columbia in honor of Carson, was brought to the Congresswoman’s attention by Glover Park residents.
Carson, who was a federal employee, often used Glover Archbold Park in the District as a site from which she drew observations about nature and the environment. “My bill celebrates Carson herself, federal employees, the environmental movement, and the diverse geography that makes D.C. unique among major cities,” Norton said.
A world-renowned environmental scientist, writer, and educator, Carson worked as the Editor-in-Chief for the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Service's publications department. She performed research on the dangers of pesticides, and her findings were sustained by the Science Advisory Committee, created during President John F. Kennedy’s administration. As a result, federal and state legislatures enacted pesticide legislation and her work paved the way for groundbreaking environmental protection legislation in this country and throughout the world. She published her seminal work, Silent Spring, in 1962. Carson was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters and received many other honors. She died in 1964.
Last year, Norton testified at a meeting of the National Capital Memorial Advisory Commission on the bill. The commission asked for additional information on Carson’s work in the park. Norton and D.C. residents are providing the commission with the requested information, and Norton expects the commission to support the designation at their next meeting.
