Political Quotes

“today I am introducing the River Democracy Act of 2021, to add 4,702 miles of rivers and streams in Oregon to the national Wild and Scenic Rivers system to protect the recreational opportunities, clean drinking water, fish, and wildlife habitat that they provide from harmful activities. Oregon's 110,994 miles of rivers and streams are an invaluable part of Oregon's livability and an irreplaceable resource that must remain intact for future generations. Currently, Oregon has only protected 2% (2,173 miles) of rivers and streams under the national Wild and Scenic Rivers system--including gems like the Rogue and Deschutes Rivers and many other iconic salmon and steelhead streams. Our rivers and streams are Oregon's lifeblood--they provide clean drinking water to millions of Oregonians, sustain our thriving outdoor recreation economy, nurture the salmon and steelhead that fuel our important commercial and recreational fishing industries, and help maintain the quality of life that brings new investments, businesses, and jobs to our state. Oregon's outdoor recreation industry is an economic engine in Oregon. According to the Outdoor Recreation Industry, it supports 224,000 jobs and generates $15.6 billion in economic activity. Healthy rivers are the foundation for Oregon's outdoor recreation economy. With the climate crisis worsening, access to clean and safe drinking water has perhaps never been more important.…”