[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 162 (Monday, October 1, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S6414]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. REED (for himself, Mr. Whitehouse, Mr. Blumenthal, and Mr. 
        Murphy):
  S. 3533. A bill to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate 
certain river segments within the Wood-Pawcatuck watershed as 
components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and for other 
purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
  Mr. REED. Mr. President, today I am introducing, along with my 
colleagues Senator Whitehouse, Senator Blumenthal, and Senator Murphy, 
legislation to designate river segments within the Wood-Pawcatuck 
watershed as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
  Following more than three years of intense study, this legislation 
would formally recognize the recreational, natural, and historical 
qualities of portions of the Beaver, Chipuxet, Green Fall-Ashaway, 
Pawcatuck, Queen-Usquepaugh, Shunock, and Wood Rivers in Rhode Island 
and Connecticut while providing access to Federal resources and 
promoting strong partnerships for their restoration and protection.
  The Wood-Pawcatuck watershed is a national treasure that not only 
holds natural and scenic value, but is also an important economic 
driver for the area. Indeed, the twelve local river communities 
experience direct economic benefits from their proximity to these 
rivers through increased recreation and tourism. The watershed provides 
a range of opportunities for visitors, from viewing early industrial 
mill ruins, to trout fishing, to bird watching, to kayaking.
  I have long been a supporter of protecting and restoring these 
rivers, which is why I sponsored the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed 
Protection Act in 2013. The study that was initiated by that 
legislation has been a critical tool for bringing together stakeholders 
from Rhode Island and Connecticut including representatives from State 
agencies, local governments, and conservation groups in order to 
develop a collaborative path forward. The resulting stewardship plan, 
which was formally adopted by the study committee and supported by all 
twelve local river communities, builds upon currently existing efforts 
to preserve and manage the river ecosystems while also considering what 
steps will need to be taken collectively in the future to protect them.
  I would like to commend Representatives Langevin, Cicilline, and 
Courtney for introducing companion legislation. It is particularly 
fitting this week, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 
landmark Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, that we are continuing our work to 
protect these special places. I look forward to working with all of my 
colleagues to pass this legislation so that we can preserve the rivers 
of the Wood-Pawcatuck watershed for the enjoyment of future 
generations.

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