Reichert Recognizes Earth Day 2009
Washington, D.C.,
Apr 22 -
Congressmen Dave Reichert (WA-08) today made the following statement in the Congressional Record recognizing Earth Day 2009:
“Almost forty years ago today, what was an idea to spread awareness about our environment has become global recognition and awareness of the importance of protecting the Earth. Earth Day began in 1970, when 20 million people participated across the U.S.
“Earth Day has grown into a global tradition, with a billion people expected to take part this year in 180 nations around the world.
“It is a movement that succeeds because of the passion of each individual, realizing that there's something bigger than ourselves - that what each of us contribute can make a difference in our world, and on our environment.
“In Washington State, we take special pride in our natural resources, and I'm proud to follow in the footsteps of so many in our great State who have worked together to protect the outdoors and our environment.
"One of the popular, natural glories of my Congressional district in Washington State is the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, a 362,000 acre wilderness that sits just west of the Seattle metropolitan area. Just over a week ago, I joined the senior Senator from Washington State to discuss our recently introduced legislation to designate over 22,000 acres of additional wilderness and institute federal protection for two pristine rivers in my district. Our new legislation will expand the boundary of the existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area to embrace important lower-elevation lands, and establish Wild and Scenic designations for the Pratt and parts of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers.
“Earth Day brings an excitement to the movement of protecting our environment, but we need to take the Earth Day movement from single-day actions—such as park cleanups and tree-planting parties—to long-term commitments in our everyday lives. Whether that is supporting legislation, or making small changes to be more environmentally conscious, each is equally important. These commitments will make a difference for our children and the generations to come.”
