[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 17, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2394-S2395]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. LIEBERMAN (for himself and Mr. Blumenthal):
  S. 2286. A bill to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate 
certain segments of the Farmington River and Salmon Brook in the State 
of Connecticut as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers 
System, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural 
Resources.
  Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Lower 
Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Act. I first 
would like to thank my colleague, Senator Blumenthal, for joining me as 
a cosponsor of this legislation, and also wish to thank Congressman 
Chris Murphy, who recently introduced an identical bill in the House.
  My work to preserve and protect the Farmington River dates back many 
years, and holds a special place in my heart. In 1993 and 1994, in my 
first term in office, I worked with Congresswoman Nancy Johnson to 
introduce and pass legislation that added 14 miles of the Upper 
Farmington River, or the west branch of the river, to the National Wild 
and Scenic River System, becoming Connecticut's first addition to the 
system. In 2006, I again had the privilege of working with Rep. Johnson 
and Sen. Chris Dodd to introduce and pass the Lower Farmington River 
and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Study Act, which authorized a 
study of the Lower Farmington, or the east branch of the river. Now 
complete, the study found that the Lower Farmington River and Salmon 
Brook possess outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. I 
am honored to return to the Senate floor today to introduce this 
legislation, which would add the Lower Farmington River and Salmon 
Brook to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System in order to preserve the 
extraordinary ecological and recreational values it brings to our 
state.
  Passing through ten towns in northwestern Connecticut, the Lower 
Farmington River and Salmon Brook is home to extensive wetlands, unique 
geology, and stunning vistas. The pristine and unique qualities of this 
river system and the surrounding landscape provide visitors and 
residents alike, a special location for hiking, paddling, and fishing. 
This unspoiled natural retreat has a rich history that is only rivaled 
by its vibrant biodiversity. Archeologists have revealed that sites 
surrounding the river date back over 11,000 years. The timeline that 
has been discovered chronicles important Native American development as 
well as the birth and growth of our nation. From

[[Page S2395]]

the prehistoric campsites, to the Underground Railroad network, and 
burgeoning manufacturing that sent goods to markets across the world, 
the river and its banks are an essential component of our nation's 
history.
  But the importance of the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook 
goes beyond its contribution to our nation's history. Among the 
country's most biologically diverse ecosystem, the river is home to 30 
species of finfish, 105 bird species, and the only river in New England 
that is home to all 12 of the freshwater mussel species native to the 
region, one of which is a federally listed endangered species. Since 
prehistory the rich biodiversity has also benefited agriculture along 
the banks of this river system. Driven by the unique qualities of the 
soil, Native Americans, colonists and Connecticut residents have 
harvested tobacco that is known the world over.
  Today, outdoor recreationists visit the Lower Farmington River and 
Salmon Brook in increasing numbers. As Americans return to nature, it 
is essential that policies are in place which enhances stewardship and 
conservation in Connecticut and across the nation. Unchecked 
development threatens to erode biodiversity, destroy unprotected 
historic sites, and consume priceless natural resources. In order to 
combat such destruction we must have the foresight to ensure that 
treasures such as the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook remain 
unspoiled for today's recreational users as well as tomorrow's.
  I thank Congressman Murphy, all the members of the Study Committee, 
and especially the Farmington River Watershed Association and its 
Executive Director, Eileen Fielding, for working with me to advance the 
Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook's status within the National 
Wild & Scenic Rivers System. I reaffirm my strong support today for the 
river's protection, and I look forward to working cooperatively with my 
colleagues in making it happen.
                                 ______