[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1353-E1354]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           INTRODUCTION OF MOLALLA WILD AND SCENIC RIVER BILL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KURT SCHRADER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2009

  Mr. SCHRADER. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to introduce The Molalla 
Wild and Scenic River Bill. This legislation would designate 21.3 miles 
of the Molalla River as ``wild and scenic'' and would provide federal 
designation in preserving the character of this section of the Molalla 
River.
  This legislation is supported by numerous elected officials, civic 
leaders, and recreational and environmental groups in Clackamas and 
Marion counties including American Rivers, the City of Molalla, the 
Oregon State Police, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Wild 
Salmon Center, and the Willamette Riverkeepers. All of these groups 
recognize the social, cultural and economic benefits of this bill.
  In Oregon, the Molalla River is known for its many recreational 
purposes which include hiking, diving, fishing, kayaking, whitewater 
rafting, picnicking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It still 
serves as a water source for many citizens in Canby and Molalla, 
Oregon, and is nationally recognized for its beautiful and scenic 
wildlife. It provides spawning beds for threatened Steelhead Trout and 
Chinook salmon and is also an essential wildlife area for the pileated 
woodpecker, red tree vole, red-legged frog, northern spotted owl, 
Pacific giant salamander, and both golden and bald eagles.
  Designating this section of the Molalla River as ``wild and scenic'' 
would permanently ensure its protection and preservation as one of 
Oregon's many natural state treasures. It would guarantee that future 
generations can experience the river's rich historical, cultural,

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and recreational purposes. I am excited to introduce this legislation 
and urge my colleagues to support it.

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