Senator Ron Wyden Proposes Wild and Scenic River Protections Statewide

The River Democracy Act of 2021 would preserve clean drinking water, habitat and recreation

February 3, 2021 
Contact: David Moryc, 503-307-1137 
Amy Kober, 503-708-1145 

American Rivers applauded Oregon’s senior U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today for introducing historic legislation that would protect Oregon’s clean drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat and economically important outdoor recreation by designating 4,702 miles of Oregon’s rivers on public lands as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The designation would keep the rivers and streams free-flowing, preserve clean water and preserve their outstanding values such as fisheries, scenery and recreation. The River Democracy Act of 2021 was developed with unprecedented input from thousands of Oregonians, as well as businesses, community leaders, and tribal nations. Senator Wyden has championed protection of more rivers as Wild and Scenic Rivers than any other member of Congress for their home state and today’s action build on that legacy. 

David Moryc, Senior Director of Wild and Scenic Rivers at American Rivers, made the following statement: 

“Senator Wyden is a river champion and everyone who appreciates our state’s clean water, fish and wildlife and world class recreation should applaud his leadership today. His vision will ensure a wild river legacy that we can be proud to pass on to our children.” 

“At a time when more Americans than ever are looking for ways to get in nature and enjoy the outdoors, Senator Wyden is showing that rivers are essential to our way of life and our economy. The collaborative way he developed this legislation proves that river democracy is alive and well in Oregon.” 

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