STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
The federal legislation that would allow Mammoth Cave National Park to expand by more than 550 acres recently received a congressional hearing.
The Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act, which was introduced May 8, 2025, by Congressman Brett Guthrie and Senator Mitch McConnell, received a legislative hearing in the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands.
The bill would give Mammoth Cave the authority to acquire 551.14 acres of land from The Nature Conservancy, according to information provided by the sponsors. The acreage lies within the Green River watershed, a region that is considered critical to the park’s unique cave and river ecosystem.
The additional land would strengthen protections for water quality, help preserve habitat for local wildlife and safeguard cultural heritage sites connected to the area, Guthrie said in a written statement.
“This expansion would allow the National Park to manage land in Edmonson and Barren Counties…,” Guthrie said. “This legislation supports the continued responsible stewardship of Mammoth Cave National Park while preserving Americans’ access to the outdoors and strengthening the park’s long-standing contributions to local communities and the regional economy”
Edmonson County Judge-Executive Scott Lindsey, a backers of the proposal, also point to potential economic benefits, saying the boundary adjustment and land acquisition are expected to generate additional tourism in Kentucky’s Second District, which includes Mammoth Cave. Increased visitation could bring more spending at local businesses that serve park visitors, including hotels, restaurants and outdoor outfitters.
The measure would not automatically transfer land to the park. Instead, it would authorize Mammoth Cave National Park to work with The Nature Conservancy to add the identified 551.14 acres to the park boundary. Any acquisition would still follow federal procedures and available funding.
Lawmakers have not announced a timeline for action, and the bill remains subject to committee review and possible floor votes before becoming law.
Key Facts:
• The Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act was introduced May 8, 2025.
• Sponsors are Congressman Brett Guthrie and Senator Mitch McConnell.
• The bill would allow the park to acquire 551.14 acres from The Nature Conservancy.
• Supporters say the expansion would enhance protections in the Green River watershed.
• The proposal is expected to support wildlife, cultural heritage and tourism in Kentucky’s Second District.
• The legislation is still pending in Congress and has not been approved.
