[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 90 (Thursday, May 23, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E554]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE HUDSON RIVER CLEARWATER SLOOP

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                           HON. PATRICK RYAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2024

  Mr. RYAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of 
the Hudson River Clearwater Sloop--a champion of environmental activism 
and education that has sailed the Hudson since 1969.
  Inspired by folk legend Pete Seeger, the Clearwater Sloop was born 
out of a deep commitment to protecting the Hudson River, Seeger, 
alongside his wife Toshi and a cadre of fellow musicians, created a 
replica of the historic sloops that once sailed the river. Their 
mission: to let residents experience the beauty of their river and be 
moved to preserve it.
  Throughout its history, the Clearwater has consistently stood as a 
steward of the Hudson River. In 1970, it set sail for Washington, D.C., 
with thousands of petitions in support of the federal Clean Water Act. 
This historic voyage is credited with playing a pivotal role in the 
adoption of this historic legislation.
  From successful campaigns against the Storm King Mountain power 
plant, standing up against pollution caused by PCB dumping from General 
Electric, to the thousands of students throughout my district who for 
generations have learned about the river through their educational 
programming, the Clearwater has been a beacon of advocacy, education, 
and it has helped shepherd in the modern environmental movement.
  Today, despite its legacy, the future of the Clearwater is uncertain. 
Financial strain compounded by the challenges from the pandemic 
threatens to put a ship listed on the National Register of Historic 
Places out of commission. Despite this threat, hope remains high.
  Together with the support of my constituents and the efforts of my 
office, we are working to not just save the Clearwater but also 
continue its mission. Last week, the House of Representatives passed my 
bill, the ``Hudson River Protection Act.'' This vital legislation is 
yet another example of the challenges and work that lie ahead to ensure 
that we protect clean drinking water in the Hudson Valley.
  As we recognize the work and legacy of Clearwater, I will end today 
with a line from a song written by its founder ``Some day, though maybe 
not this year/My Hudson River will once again run clear.''

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