[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 114 (Thursday, August 5, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1765]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           THE TAUNTON RIVER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN JOSEPH MOAKLEY

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, August 5, 1999

  Mr. MOAKLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that 
would call for a 3-year study to determine if the Taunton River in 
Massachusetts could be added to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers 
System.
  The Taunton River is of great historic, scenic, and ecological 
importance, not only to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, but also to 
the Nation. From a historical perspective, the Taunton River, which was 
formerly called the Great River, was the first river the Pilgrims 
encountered as they moved inland in the early 1600's. The river, which 
was already many thousands of years old, was also used as a travelway 
for Native Americans, who made canoes by carving out large pine logs. 
Within a few short years of the colonization, the river became an 
indispensable tool and lifeline for the Pilgrims. The river also served 
as a meeting spot for the initial contacts between Native Americans and 
the early European settlers. These meetings were documented through an 
inscription on Dighton Rock by Miguel Cortereal in 1511.
  Mr. Speaker, besides the historical value, the Taunton River is also 
a tremendous ecological resource. The quality of the water is improving 
tremendously. Seven freshwater mussel species were found in the river, 
which is a record for Massachusetts. Striped bass and other types of 
fish have returned to the river. And what I find most incredible of all 
are the numerous spottings of the American Bald Eagle. Clearly the 
return of the American Bald Eagle is a sure sign of the remarkable 
example of the improved fisheries and pristine stretches of the river 
system.
  Not only is the quality of the river improving, but the surrounding 
area is, as well. Years ago, the river was the site for many 
manufacturing factories that provided jobs for the residents of 
southeastern Massachusetts. Like many industrialized cities in 
Massachusetts, Taunton suffered an economic downturn in the sixties and 
seventies. But as a result of a concerted effort by the local 
community, the once blighted area was revitalized. Old buildings and 
warehouses were torn down, new charming street lights were installed, 
the facades on old buildings were refurbished, and a new riverfront 
park was developed. The revitalization of the area is a true economic 
success story, and the Taunton River is the centerpiece of this 
revitalization effort.
  The local community deserves recognition for their outstanding 
dedication and commitment to protecting and preserving the valuable 
ecological resources of the Taunton River. It is with great pleasure 
that I call for a study to assess the feasibility of making the Taunton 
River a National Wild and Scenic River.

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