November 19, 2021 4:20 a.m.

Thursday night the U.S. Senate unanimously approved the nomination of Oregonian Chuck Sams as National Park Service Director.

Senator Ron Wyden went to the Senate floor and asked lawmakers to pass the nomination by unanimous consent. Wyden said, “Chuck Sams is the right nominee to lead the National Park Service as it addresses these challenges. I know Chuck. He is hardworking. He is committed”.  Senator Wyden called Sams a role model in stewardship of American land and waters, wildlife and history. Senator Wyden said, “And now thanks to the Senate’s unanimous decision to confirm his nomination, Congress and park-goers will have someone steady and experienced to rely on in the years ahead”.

Sams is a member of the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. Prior, he held positions with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation along with leading a number of other organizations. He was nominated by President Joe Biden in August.

Sams will be the first Native American to lead the National Park Service in its 105-year history.