President Jimmy Carter, A Hero For Rivers, Dies at 100

Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145 

Statement of American Rivers President and CEO Tom Kiernan 

Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers issued the following statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter: 

“Jimmy Carter was one of our nation’s great river heroes. He had a personal love of rivers and was an avid angler and paddler. His dedication to river conservation leaves a legacy of healthy, free-flowing rivers that will benefit our nation for generations to come.” 

“As Governor of Georgia, Carter was instrumental in protecting the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers. As President, he played a key role in strengthening the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and securing federal protection for the Chattooga. Carter also ensured a legacy of healthy, free-flowing rivers by vetoing construction of  unnecessary, destructive dams across the country.” 

“One of the best ways we can honor his legacy is to recommit ourselves to the protection of rivers nationwide, so that they may continue to support an abundance of life.”