May 23, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC — Threats to the nation’s clean drinking water supplies are in the spotlight this week, as President Trump is proposing massive budget cuts to clean water and river restoration efforts.
President Trump’s budget proposal includes deep cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency, proposing to cut the agency by almost one third by slashing funding for vital environmental initiatives including EPA’s enforcement and compliance program for bedrock environmental laws.
The budget eliminates funding for regional restoration efforts, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and the Chesapeake Bay Program, each of which provide resources to states and communities trying to restore and protect the rivers that flow into these iconic waterways.
The budget also slashes funds for all National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grants and programs supporting coastal and marine management, research, and education. These programs support river restoration, scientific research, and fisheries recovery which are essential to communities that care about their rivers.
The Trump Budget also virtually eliminates the popular Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which allows the Interior Department and the Forest Service to expand access to public lands. Incredibly, the Trump Budget eliminates the Pre-Disaster Mitigation program at the Federal Emergency Management Agency which helps communities prepare for disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods.
Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“In terms that President Trump will understand, his budget is a loser. The President’s budget proposal is an attack on our clean drinking water supplies and the rivers that are vital to the health, economy and quality of life of communities nationwide. Unfortunately, it is the
American people, and the rivers and clean water we treasure, that will pay the price if this budget is adopted by Congress.”“We need to take care of the rivers that take care of us. Congress has a responsibility to toss this reckless proposal and craft a budget that ensures communities get the clean water safeguards they need. Americans must call their Members of Congress and insist they reject the Trump Budget.”
“As the nation’s voice for rivers, American Rivers will continue to fight to safeguard the rivers and streams that connect us all, and to protect clean drinking water for American families and future generations.”
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.
April 26, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145, akober@americanrivers.org
Washington, DC – President Trump signed an executive order today that could undermine protection of millions of acres of public lands and waters central to our nation’s natural and cultural heritage.
The order directs the Department of the Interior to review all national monument designations of 100,000 acres or more created since 1996 and suggest modifications. Many of the 26 monuments impacted by the order could suffer the removal of protections for rivers and streams and their priceless natural, cultural and historical values.
Located within these national monuments are rivers and streams that provide clean drinking water supplies for downstream communities, spiritual sites for Native American tribes, fish and wildlife habitat, and opportunities for fishing, boating and hiking.
“This executive order threatens to reverse almost twenty years of progress in preserving our country’s natural heritage,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers.
“Curtailed protection of public lands and rivers, the potential result of the executive order’s review process, will make us poorer as a nation. Americans must speak out and insist that national monuments that local citizens, elected officials, and past presidents worked together to create be upheld. We must not let the current president dismantle the legacy we have secured for future generations,” Irvin said.
According to a new study (https://outdoorindustry.org/advocacy) released yesterday by the Outdoor Industry Association, national parks, monuments and other public lands and waters account for $45 billion in economic output and about 396,000 jobs nationwide.
Rivers that could be impacted by the executive order include:
Colorado River
(Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. Protected in 2000)
- The monument is located on the northern edge of the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
- The absence of development allows for views of the night sky that are increasingly difficult to experience.
- Its pristine wilderness and dramatic landscape make it one of the most-visited public lands in the United States.
Columbia River
(Hanford Reach National Monument, Washington. Protected in 2000)
- The 51-mile long Hanford Reach is the last free-flowing stretch of the Columbia River and home to the largest salmon in the Columbia Basin.
- Culturally, the Reach is significant to a number of Indian nations, including the Umatilla, Yakama, Nez Perce and Wanapum tribes.
Upper Missouri River
(Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, Montana. Protected in 2001)
- Rich in Native American cultural significance and American history, the Lewis and Clark expedition traveled through the area in 1805.
- The Missouri River is protected as a Wild and Scenic River, offering outstanding recreation opportunities and fish and wildlife habitat.
Rio Grande
(Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument, New Mexico. Protected in 2013)
- The Rio Grande is protected as a Wild and Scenic River and is popular for rafting and camping.
- The river is significant to Native American tribes including the Tesuque Pueblo (one family’s connection to the river is highlighted in the new American Rivers film, Avanyu: https://vimeo.com/197904986 )
Jenny Creek
(Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, Oregon. Protected in 2000 and expanded in 2017)
- The monument safeguards pristine clean water supplies and rare Redband Trout habitat
- The Pacific Crest Trail runs through the monument.
- The first U.S. national monument set aside solely for the preservation of biodiversity.
San Gabriel River
(San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, California. Protected in 2014)
- More than 15 million people live within 90 minutes of the San Gabriel Mountains, which provides 70 percent of the open space for Angeleños and 30 percent of their drinking water.
- The monument serves as the backyard to the nation’s second-largest urban center. Public health and Latino groups supported the monument designation to counter the shortage of parks and open space in Los Angeles County.
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.
Contact: Amy Kober, American Rivers, 503-708-1145, akober@americanrivers.org
Washington, DC – Former President Jimmy Carter’s connection to rivers and his leadership in river protection is celebrated in the new film “The Wild President,” released online today by American Rivers and NRS.
“The Wild President” tells the story of Carter’s first descent down the Chattooga River’s Bull Sluice Rapid in 1974. As Governor of Georgia and President of the United States, Carter was instrumental in protecting the Chattooga as a Wild and Scenic River, and helped conserve rivers across Georgia and the nation. The film also features conservationist Claude Terry, a founder of American Rivers and Doug Woodward, co-founded of Southeastern Expeditions.
October 2, 2018 will mark the 50th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. American Rivers and NRS produced “The Wild President” as part of the 5,000 Miles of Wild campaign, an effort to protect 5,000 new miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers nationwide. The film will be used in public outreach and education efforts in support of Wild and Scenic Rivers.
“President Carter’s connection to rivers runs deep and he has been a champion for wild rivers over the course of his lifetime. We are honored to share this story and we hope it will inspire a new generation to speak up and protect the rivers that connect us all,” said Amy Kober, National Communications Director for American Rivers.
“In an era when public lands and clean, healthy waters – concepts we once took for granted in America – face grave threats, President Carter’s example as a steward and guardian of rivers is inspiring. We hope this film helps renew our commitment as a nation to protecting free-flowing rivers and wild places for generations to come,” said Mark Deming, NRS Director of Marketing.
The federal Wild and Scenic designation safeguards values including clean drinking water, recreation and fish and wildlife. Wild and Scenic Rivers include beloved reaches such as the Middle Fork Salmon, Tuolumne, Flathead, Rogue, Chattooga, Rio Grande, Upper Delaware and New, among many others.
The designation prohibits new dams and harmful water projects. It engages communities and landowners to create locally-driven river management plans, while honoring existing water rights and common uses such as irrigated agriculture and hunting.
Today, less than one percent of America’s rivers remain wild and free. Without official protection, rivers are vulnerable to destruction from dams, pollution, oil and gas development and other threats.
“I think it’s very important for all Americans to take a stand, a positive stand, in protecting wild rivers,” President Carter says in the film. “I hope that all Americans will join together with me and others who love the outdoors to protect this for our children and our grandchildren.”
Watch “The Wild President”: https://vimeo.com/198888034
About the 5,000 Miles of Wild campaign:
https://www.americanrivers.org/threats-solutions/protecting-rivers/5000-miles-of-wild/
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.
April 14, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145 or Lowell George, 202-347-7550
(Washington, DC) – Thousands of volunteers across the country will participate in National River Cleanup®, an American Rivers program that keeps rivers and streams trash-free.
The river cleanup season kicks off today and runs through the fall. To date, more than 1.3 million National River Cleanup volunteers have removed over 25 million pounds of trash from rivers and streams across the country.
Volunteers can find a cleanup or register their own at www.AmericanRivers.org/Cleanup.
Healthy rivers are essential to our health, economy, and quality of life. Rivers provide more than two-thirds of our drinking water supplies and are economic engines for communities. Healthy rivers and streams provide significant value to residents and visitors, offering places to exercise and explore, spend time with family and friends, and connect with the natural world.
Many streams have become eyesores, clogged with trash, from plastic bags and cans to tires and old appliances. River cleanups help turn forgotten streams into community assets once again.
The National River Cleanup Program is sponsored by Aveda, Cox Enterprises, Keurig Green Mountain, Plow & Hearth, REI and ReUseIt.com.
“We all need clean water and healthy rivers. Cleanups are a great way to help the rivers that sustain us. We’re grateful for the support of Aveda, Cox Enterprises, Keurig Green Mountain, Plow & Hearth, REI, and ReUseIt.com and thrilled we can work together to make a difference in communities nationwide,” said Lowell George, National River Cleanup Manager at American Rivers.
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.
April 11, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, American Rivers, 503-708-1145
www.AmericanRivers.org/MostEndangeredRivers
(Washington, DC) – American Rivers today released its annual list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers®, identifying ten rivers facing urgent threats and critical decisions this year. The list highlights the dangers Trump Administration budget cuts pose to rivers and communities nationwide. Number one on this year’s list is the Lower Colorado River, where the communities, economy, and natural resources of the southwestern U.S. will be threatened if the Trump Administration and Congress don’t prioritize and fund innovative water management solutions.
“This is a critical year for rivers and clean water,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers. “Water is one of the most crucial conservation issues of our time. The rivers Americans depend on for drinking water, jobs, food, and quality of life are under attack from the Trump administration’s rollbacks and proposed budget cuts.”
“Americans must speak up and let their elected officials know that healthy rivers are essential to our families, our communities and our future. We must take care of the rivers that take care of us.” Irvin said.
President Trump has abandoned critical river protections including the Clean Water Rule, leaving small streams and wetlands – sources of drinking water for one in three Americans – vulnerable to harmful development and pollution. He has also proposed significant budget cuts that would cripple river restoration and protection efforts nationwide, with severe impacts to drinking water supplies, fish and wildlife and recreation.
These cuts would impact the rivers on this year’s America’s Most Endangered Rivers list. For example, cuts to the Department of the Interior and Department of Agriculture could hamstring efforts to find water management solutions to meet the crisis on the Lower Colorado River. Cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency could undermine regulation of pollution from Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations like those on the Neuse-Cape Fear and the Buffalo National River. Virtually zeroing out the Land and Water Conservation Fund would eliminate opportunities such as the conservation purchases that have helped protect Washington’s Green River. And, dramatic cuts to the Department of the Interior likely would foreclose any opportunity to adequately fund the proper planning, management, and protection of the neglected Wild and Scenic Rivers System, including the Buffalo National River and Middle Fork Flathead — a sorry state of affairs as the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act approaches its 50th anniversary in 2018.
America’s Most Endangered River, the lower Colorado, provides drinking water for 30 million Americans, irrigates fields that grow 90 percent of the nation’s winter vegetables and slakes the thirst of growing cities including Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix. But the water demands of Arizona, Nevada and California are outstripping supply, the impacts of climate change are becoming acute, and the river is at a breaking point.
The water level of Lake Mead reservoir behind Hoover Dam is dropping by an average of 12 feet per year. This spring’s snowmelt will ease the drop this year, but the long-term trend is not altered by one wet winter. If the long-term deficit is not addressed, the Bureau of Reclamation will be forced to cut water deliveries, with severe economic impacts to farms and cities across Arizona, Nevada and California.
Unfortunately, the Trump Administration’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget proposal threatens to reverse progress made by states, cities and farmers to reduce water consumption across the three states. American Rivers called on Congress and the Trump Administration to provide support, leadership and financial resources for innovative water savings and transfer projects to conserve and share the region’s water assets.
The future of the Lower Colorado River is of particular importance to the region’s Latino communities. One-third of the nation’s Latinos live in the Colorado River Basin. The significance of the river to the faith, livelihood and future of Latino farm-working families is showcased in the new film Milk and Honey, produced by American Rivers and the Hispanic Access Foundation. Watch the film trailer: https://vimeo.com/203244799
“The Lower Colorado River is an integral part of our heritage and way of life. From serving as the backbone for the agricultural industry to providing a cultural focal point for faith communities, the Lower Colorado River is essential to the livelihood of the Southwest,” said Maite Arce, President and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “By taking action now we can make strides in ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from this tremendous resource.”
American Rivers and the Hispanic Access Foundation urged the Trump Administration and Congress to support innovative water management solutions including:
- Prioritizing long-term agreements: Short-term agreements or year-to-year conservation actions aren’t sufficient. The basin needs long-term, market-based water-sharing agreements, such as the Drought Contingency Plan.
- Optimizing existing infrastructure (making water use more efficient, improving water conservation in farms and cities).
- Pursuing lower impact supplies first (water reuse; treating wastewater so it can be recycled for irrigation or other uses).
- Protecting natural infrastructure (using forests, wetlands, groundwater aquifers to filter and store water).
In its 32nd year, the annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers® report is a list of rivers at a crossroads, where key decisions in the coming months will determine the rivers’ fates. Rivers are chosen for the list based on the following criteria: 1) The magnitude of the threat, 2) The significance of the river to people and nature and 3) A critical decision-point in the coming year.
Over the years, the report has helped spur many successes including the removal of outdated dams and the prevention of harmful development and pollution. America’s Most Endangered Rivers® of 2017:
#1: Lower Colorado River (Arizona, California, Nevada)
Threat: Water demand and climate change
#2: Bear River (California)
Threat: New Dam
#3: South Fork Skykomish (Washington)
Threat: New hydropower project
#4: Mobile Bay Rivers (Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi)
Threat: Poor water management
#5: Rappahannock River (Virginia)
Threat: Fracking
#6: Green-Toutle River (Washington)
Threat: New mine
#7: Neuse and Cape Fear Rivers (North Carolina)
Threat: Pollution from hog and chicken farms
#8: Middle Fork Flathead River (Montana)
Threat: Oil transport by rail
#9: Buffalo National River (Arkansas)
Threat: Pollution from massive hog farm
#10: Menominee River (Michigan, Wisconsin)
Threat: Open pit sulfide mining
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.
April 5, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington – President Trump made several statements about hydropower dams yesterday, calling them “a great, great form of power” and “one of the best things you can do.” He suggested that regulation of hydropower should be relaxed.
Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers, made the following statement in response:
“The president is wrong when it comes to hydropower. Weakened environmental safeguards at hydro dams is the last thing we need. For the sake of public safety, our economy and our environment, we should prioritize the protection and restoration of our nation’s rivers.”
“Talking about weakening safeguards at hydropower dams is reckless, especially in the wake of the crisis at California’s Oroville Dam. There are serious safety concerns at dams nationwide.”
“Nobody wants to see more dead rivers, dried up streams or devastated fish and wildlife populations. Hydropower dams that destroy rivers aren’t clean energy. We need 21st century energy solutions.”
“When it comes to hydropower, the focus must not be on building new dams but instead on responsible operation and maximizing efficiency at existing facilities, and ensuring safeguards for clean water, fish and wildlife and communities.”
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.
March 16, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC — President Trump’s proposed budget cuts to clean drinking water and river restoration efforts would cause serious harm to the nation’s health, economy, and quality of life, American Rivers said today.
The President’s budget proposal includes deep cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency, proposing to cut the agency by almost one third by slashing funding for vital environmental initiatives including EPA’s enforcement and compliance program for bedrock environmental laws.
The budget virtually eliminates funding for regional restoration efforts, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and the Chesapeake Bay Program, each of which provide resources to states and communities trying to restore and protect the rivers that flow into these iconic waterways.
The budget also slashes funds for all National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grants and programs supporting coastal and marine management, research, and education. The programs support river restoration, scientific research, and fisheries recovery that are essential to communities who care about their rivers.
The Trump Budget also virtually eliminates the popular Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which allows the Interior Department and the Forest Service to expand access to public lands.
Incredibly, the Trump Budget eliminates the Pre-Disaster Mitigation program at the Federal Emergency Management Agency which helps communities prepare for disasters.
Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This budget is a reckless proposal that threatens the health of American families and puts businesses and communities that rely on clean water and healthy rivers at risk.”
“Healthy rivers fuel our economy, enrich our communities and provide our drinking water. We need to take care of the rivers that take care of us. Americans must call their Members of Congress and insist they reject the Trump Budget.”
“These budget cuts would trigger a cascade of health and economic impacts in communities nationwide: more drinking water crises like the one in Flint, Michigan. More water-shutoffs spurred by pollution like the one in Toledo, Ohio in 2014. More river-dependent businesses closing because of dwindling fish runs and dried up rivers. More communities devastated by flooding. This is not the vision for our country that Americans want.”
“Congress has a responsibility to toss this proposal and craft a budget that ensures rivers and communities get the safeguards they need. If together we speak with one voice for our rivers, Congress will have to listen.”
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.
March 1, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington – The Senate today confirmed Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) as Secretary of the Interior, to oversee conservation and management of thousands of miles of rivers and 500 million acres of public lands including national parks, wildlife refuges and the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
“We congratulate Secretary Zinke on his confirmation and look forward to working with him to protect and restore the rivers that are vital to our communities and future generations,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers.
“The Secretary of the Interior plays a crucial role in the management of our nation’s rivers and water supplies. Rivers provide clean drinking water for two-thirds of Americans. They are economic engines for local businesses, and backyard escapes for families to experience the joy of the outdoors. As an angler, Secretary Zinke knows this firsthand. We urge him to prioritize the restoration, protection and stewardship of our nation’s rivers and water resources,” Irvin said.
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.
February 27, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC – President Trump today is expected to sign an executive order instructing the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to abandon the Clean Water Rule, likely stripping protection from small streams and wetlands from which all of our rivers flow, and putting the drinking water supplies for one in three Americans at risk.
“Few things are more fundamental to our health than the water we drink. No one should have to worry about pollution when they turn on the tap,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers.
“Coming just days after he eliminated the rule protecting streams from coal mining pollution, President Trump’s order to roll back the Clean Water Rule is another major blow against river health and clean drinking water,” Irvin said.
The Clean Water Rule clarifies which streams and wetlands are protected by the Clean Water Act, and which are not. Over a decade ago, two U.S. Supreme Court decisions raised questions over which of the nation’s waters are subject to federal protection under the Clean Water Act, and this confusion placed millions of miles of streams, particularly headwater streams, and millions of acres of wetlands in jeopardy. The Clean Water Rule remedied that situation.
Across the country, small streams and wetlands contribute to the drinking water supplies of 117 million Americans and provide tremendous economic benefits to the public in the form of reduced flooding, pollution filtration, groundwater recharge, wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities.
“Without the Clean Water Rule’s critical protections, innumerable small streams and wetlands that are essential for drinking water supplies, flood protection, and fish and wildlife habitat will be vulnerable to unregulated pollution, dredging and filling, “ Irvin said.
More than 1,200 individually peer-reviewed studies provided the scientific foundation for the Clean Water Rule, and over one million comments demonstrated overwhelming popular support for strong protection for the country’s small streams and wetlands.
“President Trump just threw away carefully crafted safeguards that were based on strong economic arguments, sound science and broad public support, “ Irvin said. “As the nation’s voice for rivers, American Rivers will fight to safeguard the rivers and streams that connect us all, and to protect clean drinking water for American families and future generations.”
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.
February 17, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC – The Senate today confirmed Scott Pruitt as the next Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, despite Pruitt’s long record of undermining the EPA’s efforts to protect clean water and clean air, and the recent controversy surrounding thousands of emails with oil, gas and coal companies that an Oklahoma court concluded were improperly withheld.
Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“The confirmation of Scott Pruitt is a bitter blow for everyone who values clean drinking water and healthy rivers. As Oklahoma Attorney General he has a track record of prioritizing the interests of polluters over people.”
“It’s hard to imagine a more troubling choice for EPA Administrator than Scott Pruitt. Rather than be a guardian of the environment, as EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt poses a serious threat to clean drinking water supplies for millions of Americans, and the health of the nation’s nearly three million miles of rivers.”
“By rushing the vote and not allowing Senators and the public to review Pruitt’s many email exchanges with the oil and gas industry he will regulate, the Senate failed in its duty to protect the health of all Americans.”
“Clean water and healthy rivers are essential to the health of our families and communities, our economy and quality of life. As the nation’s voice for rivers, American Rivers will be unyielding in fighting rollbacks and standing up for clean water and the rivers on which we and future generations depend.”
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.
February 16, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Washington, DC – President Trump today signed into law a measure that will allow more coal mining waste to foul streams, pollute drinking water supplies and threaten the health of communities across Appalachia.
The law overturns the Stream Protection Rule, which provided important safeguards for streams from coal mining pollution, and required streams that were adversely impacted by mining to be restored.
“This is a significant setback for our country’s clean drinking water and the health of our communities,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers. “Americans should be angry that their elected representatives and the president would put the interests of the mining industry above the health of families.”
“As a native of eastern Kentucky, I have seen the devastation of mountains, streams, and communities wrought by the coal industry,” Irvin said.
Congress voted to undo the rule and prevent a “substantially similar” rule from being developed in the future by using the Congressional Review Act. This drastic action leaves streams in coal country vulnerable to pollution, putting the surrounding communities and environment at risk.
“Healthy rivers and streams are essential to each and every American. They are the lifeblood of our nation’s economy, vital to our health and well-being. We need to be doing more, not less, to protect and restore our rivers,” said Irvin.
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.
February 16, 2017
Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145 or Jessie Thomas-Blate, 609-658-4769
(Washington) – Communities in 21 states, working in partnership with non-profit organizations and state and federal agencies, removed 72 dams in 2016, restoring more than 2,100 miles of streams to benefit public safety, local economies and our nation’s natural heritage.
Dams were removed in the following states in 2016: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
In 2016, Pennsylvania had the highest number of removals for the fourteenth year in a row. The top three states removing outdated dams in 2016 were:
- Pennsylvania – 10 dams removed
- North Carolina – 8 dams removed
- Minnesota– 6 dams removed
“Removing outdated dams has become popular across the country because it gives communities improved public safety, better water quality and more opportunities for local business and recreation,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers.
According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, America’s dams are degrading faster than they are being repaired, the number of high hazard dams has increased over time, and the cost to rehabilitate dams continues to rise. By 2020, seventy percent of dams in the United States will be more than 50 years old. Aging dams can pose a serious safety threat for individuals and entire communities.
“Removing a dam can save lives,” Irvin said. “Whether it’s a small dam that presents a drowning hazard to swimmers and boaters, or an old dam in disrepair that threatens downstream communities if it fails, local leaders are removing dams to protect the public.”
River restoration also delivers economic benefits. A 2012 study found that every $1 million spent on Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration projects resulted in 10 to 13 jobs created or maintained. A 2010 study in Oregon found that every $1 million spent on forest and watershed restoration resulted in 15-23 new jobs and $2.1 – 2.3 million in economic activity. The economic benefits of dam removal are summarized in a 2016 report by Headwaters Economics: https://headwaterseconomics.org/wphw/wp-content/uploads/Report-Dam-Removal-Case-Studies.pdf
“Americans love their rivers, and dam removal is a win-win solution,” Irvin said.
American Rivers is the only organization maintaining a record of dam removals in the United States. The database includes information on 1,384 dams that have been removed across the country since 1912. Most of those dams (1,174) were removed in the past 30 years.
American Rivers played a role in 18 of the dam removals on this year’s list. The list includes all known dam removals, regardless of the extent of American Rivers’ involvement.
To accompany the 2016 list, American Rivers updated the interactive map that includes all known dam removals in the United States as far back as 1916. Visit www.AmericanRivers.org/DamRemovalsMap
Highlights of dam removal and river restoration efforts in 2016 include:
Ottine Dam, San Marcos River, Texas
This 108-year old dam was damaged by a storm in 2008 and had been a safety hazard in the San Marcos River ever since. Dam removal restored 39 miles of river, benefitting kayakers and canoeists as well as fish and wildlife. Boaters participating in the Texas Water Safari annual race from the San Marcos headwaters to the coast will no longer be required to carry their equipment up and down a steep incline to bypass the dam. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is considering adding the restored stretch of river to the paddling trails system for Palmetto State Park. For more information: https://www.fws.gov/southwest/docs/OttineDamNR012016.pdf
Hogansburg Dam, Saint Regis River, New York
Following the decision that re-licensing of the Hogansburg Project was cost-prohibitive, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe led the removal of the 281-foot long and 12-foot high Hogansburg Dam. Completion of the project marked the first removal of a federally-licensed dam in the U.S. by a Native American tribe, and the first removal of a hydropower dam in New York State. As the first impassible barrier to fish on the St. Regis River, removal of the dam restored access to 555 miles of stream habitat and returned project land to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. For more information: http://www.srmtenv.org/index.php?spec=2016/04/wrp/hogansburg-dam-removal
Shuford Mill Dam, Henry Fork River, North Carolina
The Shuford Mill Dam, formerly a 35-foot tall, 275-foot wide masonry and concrete dam on the Henry Fork River in Brookford, North Carolina, had outlived its usefulness. It was constructed in the late 1800s to power an adjacent textile mill, which closed years ago. Dam removal eliminated the public safety risk posed by the unmaintained dam, improved the local community’s access to safe recreation on the Henry Fork River, and restored ten miles of river habitat for fish and wildlife. This project is an excellent example of partnership among American Rivers and other non-profit, state and federal partners. For more information: https://www.americanrivers.org/2016/08/shuford-dam-removal/
Hughesville Dam, Musconetcong River, New Jersey
The removal of Hughesville Dam, the lowest blockage on the Musconetcong River, helps restore fish and wildlife and water quality in this federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Dam removal restored access to two miles of historic river herring spawning and nursery habitat, and will benefit American shad, alewife and American eel. The Musconetcong Watershed Association coordinated work with property owners, engineers, contractors and partners including U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, American Rivers and others. For more information: http://www.musconetcong.org/upcomingprojects.php
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.
