Harry Truman actually said...

"we must never forget that the conservation of our natural resources and their wise use are essential to our very existence as a Nation."

"In the execution of a comprehensive program for the development of the Mississippi River Basin, protection from floods is of such urgency that it should be given first attention."

"The major opportunity of our generation to increase the wealth of the Nation lies in the development of our great river systems."

"I therefore urge that this Congress undertake a program which will provide for the substantial completion within ten years of the flood control projects necessary for the protection of the Mississippi..."