American Rivers statement on passing of river and salmon champion Billy Frank Jr.

May 6, 2014

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(Washington, DC) – Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers, made the following statement on the passing of Billy Frank Jr:

“All of us at American Rivers are saddened at the news of the passing of Billy Frank Jr. Billy Frank was a giant of a man who leaves a tremendous legacy advocating for tribal fishing rights and the restoration of Puget Sound and Pacific Northwest rivers and salmon. His efforts helped the region move to a better balance between development and river conservation. From his home river, the Nisqually, to rivers across the Northwest, communities will benefit for generations to come from Billy Frank’s lessons of stewardship.”

About American Rivers

American Rivers protects wild rivers, restores damaged rivers, and conserves clean water for people and nature. Since 1973, American Rivers has protected and restored more than 150,000 miles of rivers through advocacy efforts, on-the-ground projects, and an annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers® campaign. Headquartered in Washington, DC, American Rivers has offices across the country and more than 250,000 members, supporters, and volunteers.

Rivers connect us to each other, nature, and future generations. Find your connections at AmericanRivers.org, Facebook.com/AmericanRivers, and Twitter.com/AmericanRivers.