Garrett’s Bill to Preserve and Protect Musconetcong River Now Awaits President’s Signature
Washington,
Dec 11, 2006 -
Early Saturday morning, Congressman Scott Garrett pushed through the House legislation to preserve and protect the Musconetcong River as a national wild and scenic river. The bill now awaits the President’s signature into law.
“Through this initiative, we will preserve the existing natural beauty and rural character of the Musconetcong River, in the most densely-populated state in the country,” said Garrett. “The wild and scenic river designation will improve the water quality as well the recreational enjoyment of the river for residents in the surrounding region.”
The House initially passed Garrett’s Musconetcong River bill on July 24, 2006, and it received broad support from all members of the New Jersey delegation, 18 municipalities along the river, and the National Park Service. The bill calls for a Musconetcong River Management Plan, which acknowledges the importance and preference for local leadership. The plan has been developed cooperatively and under this plan, existing institutions will continue to play primary roles in the long-term protection of the river.
“I am immensely pleased to have been able to see this important legislation, improving the lives of so many New Jerseyans in the region, through Congress and am proud to have been part of this effort to protect one of the state’s great natural treasures.”
The Musconetcong River, which rests in the middle of the New Jersey Highlands, is the largest tributary to the Delaware River at over 42 miles in length.
###
