March, 27 2009, 02:24pm EDT
For Immediate Release
Contact:
David Moryc, 503-307-1137 (cell)
Amy Kober, 206-213-0330 x23
Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Could be Washington's Next Wild and Scenic Rivers
American Rivers applauds Rep. Reichert and Sen. Murray for introducing legislation to protect clean water, fish and wildlife, recreation
WASHINGTON (State)
American Rivers today applauded the bipartisan work of Rep. Dave
Reichert and Sen. Patty Murray in introducing legislation that will
protect two of Washington's great rivers, the Pratt and the Middle Fork
Snoqualmie.
The legislation would grant Wild and Scenic River protection to both
rivers, safeguarding clean water, fish and wildlife, and excellent
hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities for millions of people in
western Washington. The bill, which would also grant wilderness
protection for an additional 22,000 acres in the Alpine Lakes region,
was developed in consultation with local stakeholders and with help
from a coalition of conservation and recreation organizations,
including American Rivers.
"We applaud Congressman Reichert and Senator Murray for championing
these Wild and Scenic designations that ensure we will continue to
enjoy these wonderful rivers today and for generations to come," said
David Moryc, Senior Director of River Protection at American Rivers.
"As we've seen with other Wild and Scenic rivers in the Northwest and
across the country, this special designation can bring real benefits to
local economies and communities."
If the bill becomes law, it will bring the total number of Wild and
Scenic Rivers in Washington to eight. The state currently has six Wild
and Scenic Rivers the Skagit, Sauk, Cascade, Suiattle, Klickitat, and
White Salmon. There are at least 100 additional rivers across the state
that are eligible for designation.
It is very rare to have such pristine, wild rivers so close to a
major metropolitan area. The Pratt River, a tributary of the Middle
Fork Snoqualmie, contains old-growth forest and is home to strong
native trout runs, as well as bear, elk and cougar. The area is
treasured by anglers, whitewater boaters and hikers. The Middle Fork
Snoqualmie River is one of the nation's most outstanding free-flowing
rivers and is widely recognized as a tremendous community asset,
enjoyed year around by thousands of visitors and local residents.
American Rivers is the only national organization standing up for healthy rivers so our communities can thrive. Through national advocacy, innovative solutions and our growing network of strategic partners, we protect and promote our rivers as valuable assets that are vital to our health, safety and quality of life. Founded in 1973, American Rivers has more than 65,000 members and supporters nationwide, with offices in Washington, DC and the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, California and Northwest regions.
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