[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 9]
[House]
[Page 13236]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         NATIONAL ESTUARY WEEK

  (Mr. POSEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. POSEY. Mr. Speaker, this week we recognize National Estuary Week, 
a week dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of our Nation's 
estuaries.
  The Eighth District of Florida is home to the Indian River Lagoon, 
one of the most diverse estuaries in North America and the world. 
Stretching 156 miles along Florida's east coast, our lagoon is a 
sanctuary for nearly 4,000 species of wildlife, an economic engine for 
our community, and an invaluable recreational and educational resource 
for residents and visitors. Since estuaries are places where freshwater 
mixes with saltwater, preserving the delicate balance is as critical as 
it can be difficult.
  Many estuaries, including our lagoon, are experiencing challenges 
like harmful algae blooms, declines in sea grass, and invasive species. 
These threats require our immediate attention.
  This week, millions of Americans will show their commitment to our 
estuaries through volunteer efforts. We all have a role to play in 
caring for our environment. It is a matter of awareness and of action.

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