[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 111 (Tuesday, July 24, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1307]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                WOOD-PAWCATUCK WATERSHED PROTECTION ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 23, 2012

  Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Wood-Pawcatuck 
Watershed Protection Act. I also want to thank my colleague, 
Congressman Jim Langevin, for his unyielding efforts to introduce, 
promote and advance this important legislation.
  As you know, the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Protection Act would 
initiate an important first step to potential National Wild and Scenic 
River designation for portions of the Chipuxet, Queen, Wood, and 
Pawcatuck Rivers in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Launching a study by 
the National Parks Service, this legislation could help to verify the 
outstanding beauty, abundant fisheries, and historic character that 
these free-flowing rivers currently provide our local communities and 
put this designated area on a path towards greater preservation.
  Connecticut and Rhode Island are home to some of the most diverse 
habitats and natural resources, including the lands and waters of the 
Wood-Pawcatuck watershed. As stewards of this pristine 300 square mile 
area, it is our responsibility to ensure that these natural habitats 
are preserved and protected for generations to come. Our communities in 
Connecticut and Rhode Island have joined together to help protect this 
outstanding resource and preserve the area's biological diversity as 
well as its seemingly unlimited recreational opportunities. The 
relationship between the continued health of our local communities and 
the continued health of these waters is one that cannot and should not 
be overlooked.
  The Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Association and the Nature Conservancy 
have done an outstanding job advocating for the need and passage of 
this legislation, garnering the support of every town in the 
surrounding areas. It is evident that this locally-driven priority 
would benefit greatly from the public-private partnership that the Wild 
and Scenic designation entails, and I encourage this body to look 
favorably on this legislation so that a study for potential designation 
can begin.
  I urge my colleagues to cast a vote in favor of H.R. 3388, the Wood-
Pawcatuck Watershed Protection Act.

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