MACON, Ga. — Avid parkgoers could anticipate some changes to one Central Georgia park if a bill in Congress is passed.
But, before any changes are made to the Ocmulgee Mounds, senators are scheduled to discuss the Senate Bill 4216 Tuesday, Nov. 19.
Already a national historic park, this bill would would expand its size and add "preserve" to its official name: Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve.
Introduced by Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock in April, the bill seeks to honor the park's archaeological and cultural significance while fostering a historic partnership with the Muscogee Creek Nation.
As home of the Muscogee Creek Nation for thousands of years, one of the goals of the bill is he proposed co-management agreement between the federal government and the Muscogee Nation, marking a step toward increased recognition of Native American stewardship of ancestral lands.
Some key points of the bill include:
- Creation of an Advisory Council: The council would include representatives from the National Park Service, the Muscogee Creek Nation, and various government agencies to oversee park management.
- Land in Trust for the Tribe: The Muscogee Nation currently owns approximately 126 acres, which the bill would place in trust, giving the tribe jurisdiction over this land as part of their Indian Country.
- Preservation of Tribal Uses: The legislation ensures that traditional tribal practices and uses of the land will be respected and preserved.
- Military Activities: The bill clarifies that military operations, such as overflights, will not be restricted unless they interfere with park management.
Advocates for the legislation emphasize the importance of preserving the Ocmulgee Mounds’ rich archaeological and cultural heritage.
By renaming it the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve, supporters of the bill hope to reflect its expanded size and enhanced mission.