[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 17 (Tuesday, January 30, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H298]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1645
                    CELEBRATING THE ALLEGHENY RIVER

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 
the Allegheny River as Pennsylvania's 2024 River of the Year.
  The historic Allegheny River starts as a stream in Potter County, 
meandering through a field of wildflowers before crossing briefly 
through New York and then through six counties in western Pennsylvania. 
The 325-mile river ends in Pittsburgh where it meets two other rivers.
  The Allegheny River provides a fertile valley and abundant 
biodiversity leading to many calling this place home. The U.S. Forest 
Service has documented more than 50 mammals, 200 birds, 25 amphibians, 
20 reptiles, 80 fish, and 25 freshwater mussels in and around the 
Allegheny.
  A series of locks and dams were constructed in the early 20th century 
to make the Allegheny River navigable for barges to transport goods, 
and now swimming, boating, and fishing are enjoyed by residents and 
visitors. Whether bird-watching, island camping, or traveling through 
the locks, you are sure to find that the Allegheny River is rich with 
life, history, and beauty.
  Mr. Speaker, I remain committed to keeping the Allegheny River a key 
piece of western Pennsylvania's economy.
  I congratulate the Allegheny River on this spectacular achievement.

                          ____________________