Apr 1, 2009 6:57 pm US/Eastern
Taunton River Gets Long Fought For Protection
MIDDLEBORO (WBZ) ―
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The Taunton River runs through 38 cities and towns in Massachusetts.
WBZ
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Taunton River in the southeastern part of our state has just been designated a National Wild and Scenic River as part of the most sweeping conservation legislation signed into law in a decade.
"The river represents culture and history---it helped to build our nation," said Bill Napolitano, a river advocate who has testified before Congress twice on behalf of the waterway. "The Taunton watershed has great biodiversity, it's a fishery, and a great place for public recreation."
And this new national designation will ensure that the river remains free flowing and free of development for generations to come.
Napolitano along with many local residents and politicians have worked for many years to protect this natural resource.
"The Wild and Scenic designation has been a 20 year odessy for me," he said."I think all of us were in shock--so many years, so much work, our dreams have finally come to fruition. Now the real work of stewardship of this river, the tributaries, and the watershed really begins."
"It's just so amazing to see something that is this important finally get the recognition it deserves," said Alison Bowden, an aquatic ecologist with The Nature Conservancy. "Keeping the water healthy and clean for the fish also keeps the water healthy and clean for the people who rely on it," she added.
Visit the Taunton River's Web site
Visit Wild & Scenic Web site
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