07.21.04

Bush Administration Declares Support for Cantwell's Upper White Salmon and Scenic Rivers Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today a subcommittee of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's (D-WA) "Upper White Salmon and Scenic Rivers Act." (S. 1614) During the hearing, Cantwell educated her colleagues on the legislation and a senior Forest Service official assured her that the bill has the support of the administration.

"The department supports enactment of S. 1614, the Upper White Salmon and Scenic Rivers Act," said Mark Rey, Agriculture Undersecretary for Natural Resources and the Environment.

Cantwell is optimistic that the full committee and the Senate will approve the bill by the end of the year.

"Protecting the river will guarantee that future generations of Washingtonians have an opportunity to enjoy its wild beauty, its opportunities for recreation, and its economic benefits," Cantwell said.

The bill would protect about 20 miles of the upper White Salmon River and Cascade Creek, all within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. By designating this upper third of the White Salmon, it will be permanently protected as a premiere recreational destination, a Southwest Washington economic resource, and an important wildlife and salmon habitat.

Cantwell's legislation enjoys wide support in Southwest Washington. At the hearing Cantwell submitted a letter from Gifford Pinchot Forest Supervisor Claire Lavendel and a petition signed by 102 local citizens, with 30 of those individuals representing businesses.

Lavendel wrote, "The Upper White Salmon River and Cascade Creek as they flow through the Forest near Mt. Adams are beautiful and special places."

The local petition read, "This is a magnificent gem of a river, with waters that plunge through rugged canyons and provide many benefits for small towns on the way – organic herb and dairy farms; river rafting; kayaking; bed and breakfast enterprises; tourism; hiking; fishing; camping; wildflower viewing; sales of gas and food. These are only a few of the businesses and recreational activities that provide livelihoods for residents of our rural region."

Cantwell added, "This broad range of support reflects that this is truly a win-win proposal for local interests."

Cantwell is a member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Just last week, two other pro-environment bills sponsored by Cantwell passed through committee: legislation to expand Mt. Rainier National Park and a bill to create a Lewis and Clark National Park.