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Larson, Hayes Vote for Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Act

February 27, 2019

Act Heads to President’s Desk

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Rep. Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted for the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Act, which was included in the Natural Resources Management Act. This bill would create a National Park Service protective designation for the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook that runs through ten Connecticut towns in the First and Fifth Districts. With protective designation as a "wild and scenic river", the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook could receive as much as $100,000 in funding from the federal government to assist volunteers and officials with conservation efforts.

"This is a big win for the state of Connecticut, led by Senator Chris Murphy, who has championed this issue for many years. Preserving the Farmington River protects Connecticut's waterways and the environment across the region. The designation of the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook as ‘wild and scenic' will ensure these bodies of water remain natural treasures that will continue to be cherished by future generations," said Rep. John Larson (CT-01).

"The passage of this landmark conservation bill marks our country's biggest step forward, in over a decade, to preserve and protect the critical waters of the Farmington Valley, and its watershed throughout Connecticut for years to come," said Rep. Jahana Hayes (CT-05). "This milestone was only possible because of the tireless efforts of the entire Connecticut delegation, led by Senator Chris Murphy, who has championed this effort since his time representing Connecticut's Fifth District. From my conversations with conservationists and local leaders in my district, I know just how important this designation will be, enabling federal funds to flow freely towards stewardship of waters that are the lifeblood of so many communities. I'm proud to have voted for this bill, and look forward to it soon becoming law."

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