Hal Rogers U.S. House of Representatives from Kentucky's 5th district | Official U.S. House Headshot
Hal Rogers U.S. House of Representatives from Kentucky's 5th district | Official U.S. House Headshot
U.S. Representative Harold "Hal" Rogers and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have introduced legislation to designate the Kentucky Wildlands as the state's first National Heritage Area. This announcement was made by Congressman Rogers during the annual SOAR Summit in Pikeville.
"Our beautiful Appalachian Mountains in southern and eastern Kentucky are full of outdoor adventures, incredible wildlife, and communities filled with a rich heritage of talented musicians and artisans," said Congressman Rogers. "The National Heritage System links our region to tourism benefits that will boost our economy, adding a national spotlight here at home."
Senator McConnell expressed his support for the initiative, stating, "Securing Kentucky's first National Heritage Area has been a project years in the making, and I'm grateful to see our state move one step closer to securing this designation."
The National Park Service (NPS) recently determined that 35 counties in southern and eastern Kentucky are eligible to become part of the National Heritage System. This determination followed a feasibility study funded by federal resources secured by Rogers and McConnell in 2019.
Eastern Kentucky PRIDE received a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) in 2019 to brand the region as the Kentucky Wildlands. The area would receive technical assistance and federal funding through a partnership with the NPS if designated as a National Heritage Area.
The NPS study concluded that the region embodies self-reliance, sustainability, and community—key aspects of central Appalachian identity. The area's natural resources have historically fueled industry growth, while local musicians have influenced American music. Community-driven civic leaders' accomplishments also highlight Eastern Kentucky's resilience.
The counties identified by NPS include Bath, Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Carter, Clay, Elliott, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Madison, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Morgan Owsley Perry Pike Powell Pulaski Rockcastle Rowan Wayne Whitley Wolfe These counties collectively support themes crucial for establishing an NHA boundary
For more information about Congressman Rogers' work in Washington and at home in Kentucky visit halrogers.house.gov
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