WASHINGTON -- University of California, Merced, planners think the new school can train the next generation of national park leaders.

And Congress could help by establishing a proposed National Parks Institute, the yet-to-open UC campus's champions told a congressional panel Tuesday.

"We're extremely enthusiastic about the prospects," UC Merced Chancellor Carol Tomlinson-Keasey said at a House subcommittee hearing. "It enables us to combine our research, teaching and public service missions."

Tomlinson-Keasey flew cross-country to rally Capitol Hill support for legislation authorizing the proposed National Parks Institute.

Written by Rep. George Radanovich, R-Mariposa, and backed by Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced, the bill would blend public and private efforts.

From the federal government, funds could come to build or lease park institute facilities. Federal matching funds could be provided to operate the institute, accompanying state, local or private support.

"This kind of project really moves forward the understanding of what we need to do in the higher country of California," Cardoza said.

The enthusiasm, though, isn't necessarily shared by all.

"We're looking (to educate) people who will manage the parks, not someone who will editorialize to us about climate change," Indiana Republican Mark Souder said.

National Park Service officials said Tuesday that the Bush administration still hasn't formed an opinion about the legislation to establish the new institute, which was introduced March 31.

The park service and UC Merced already have signed a memorandum of understanding for the school's new Sierra Nevada Research Institute, whose scientists will collaborate with researchers at Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks.