[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book II)]
[August 18, 2000]
[Page 1668]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Signing Legislation Designating Wilson Creek in North 
Carolina as a Part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System
August 18, 2000

    Today I am pleased to sign into law H.R. 1749, an Act ``To designate 
Wilson Creek in Avery and Caldwell Counties, North Carolina, as a 
component of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.''
    Wilson Creek possesses all the remarkable values that distinguish 
the free-flowing rivers of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System: 
exceptional scenery; recreational opportunities; fish, wildlife, and 
botanical communities; and historic and cultural sites. The designation 
will protect and conserve Wilson Creek and provide continued 
opportunities for fishing, white-water boating, swimming, and hiking.
    I applaud the efforts of the North Carolina congressional delegation 
along with the County Commissioners and residents of Avery and Caldwell 
Counties who have worked to preserve and protect this remarkable 
resource. Their individual and collective efforts have preserved for the 
people of the State of North Carolina and all Americans a natural 
treasure that, together with the other rivers of the National Wild and 
Scenic Rivers System, will continue to add immeasurably to the quality 
of our environment and our national life.
    Designation of Wilson Creek as a wild, scenic, and recreational 
river will finalize a nearly 20-year conservation initiative and will 
guarantee for future generations that the river and its values are 
conserved. I am pleased to sign this legislation, which will permanently 
protect Wilson Creek as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers 
System.

Note: H.R. 1749, approved August 18, was assigned Public Law No. 106-
261.