[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 16 (Thursday, February 3, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S541]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                         MISSOURI RIVER RELIEF

 Mrs. McCASKILL. Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in 
honoring the 10th anniversary of Missouri River Relief and their 
dedication to preserving Missouri rivers.
  As a lifelong Missourian, I have visited and enjoyed the natural 
beauty and recreational opportunities along the Missouri River. These 
riverbanks and waterways are treasured attractions throughout Missouri. 
The Missouri River enjoys over 1 million visitors from across the 
Nation each year who have the opportunity to experience the splendor 
and excitement these natural resources provide for our state. That is 
why I am so thrilled to acknowledge the work of the Missouri River 
Relief program.
  Founded in 2001, Missouri River Relief began with just a few Missouri 
River enthusiasts dedicated to cleaning up our State waters. Ten years 
later, 12,000 Missourians have joined their communities in fighting for 
this cause, removing over 1 million pounds of trash and debris, making 
our waters safer for all to enjoy. In 2010 alone, over 1,100 student 
and teacher volunteers helped clean over 70 miles of river.
  Missouri River Relief has contributed to promoting river education 
throughout the State. By sponsoring recreational activities and 
festivals that incorporate the arts alongside river education, this 
organization has made it their mission to teach Missouri families about 
our local rivers and how the rivers contribute to our environment.
  This project has received an outpouring of State and corporate 
sponsorships that have made this growing cause a reality. Neighboring 
States have also included their support, cleaning up almost 400 miles 
of the Missouri River. The trash gathered from these clean ups have 
included recyclable and environmental friendly particles that have been 
turned into useful resources.
  Working to preserve one of our country's most affluent and beautiful 
rivers, this organization deserves our gratitude and commemoration. 
Missouri River Relief is committed to water safety and education and 
its service to the community stands as an inspiration to all 
Missourians and a strong signal of our State's continued growth and 
success.
  Mr. President, I ask that the Senate join me in recognizing the 10th 
anniversary of the Missouri River Relief.

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