[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9226]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



 LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO DESIGNATE WILSON CREEK AS A WILD AND SCENIC 
                                 RIVER

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                          HON. CASS BALLENGER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 11, 1999

  Mr. BALLENGER. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing legislation, that 
when enacted, would designate Wilson Creek, in my district, as a Wild 
and Scenic River.
  Wilson Creek is a free flowing creek which passes through some of the 
most beautiful scenery in the nation. It is home to a multitude of fish 
species, plant life and serves as a habitat for thousands of animals 
which live along its banks. From its headwaters below Calloway Peak on 
Grandfather Mountain in Avery County, North Carolina to where it 
empties into Johns River in Caldwell County, Wilson Creek meets or 
exceeds all the requirements for such an important designation.
  Specifically, my bill would designate 23.3 miles of Wilson Creek as a 
Wild and Scenic River. In my opinion, having Wilson Creek designated as 
Wild and Scenic would help maintain the natural beauty of the creek 
while helping to improve the quality of recreational opportunities, 
like hunting, fishing, camping, canoeing and other activities for the 
thousands of people who would visit each year.
  The potential designation of Wilson Creek as a Wild and Scenic River 
has received tremendous support from the County Commissions from Avery 
and Caldwell County as well as local residents. In fact, when I met 
with the county commissioners of Caldwell County last month, I was 
presented with letters of support from local residents, positive 
newspaper articles and editorials, and a latter from the U.S. Forest 
Service which indicated a willingness to help us in this effort. I am 
convinced that the designation of Wilson Creek is well supported within 
the communities which surround it.
  I believe that this is an excellent bill that would do much to 
preserve Wilson Creek, turning it into both a natural asset and a 
national treasure. I urge its immediate consideration and enactment.

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