Princeton Times

Pieces from Princeton's Past

Discussion

August 11, 2012

From the August 6, 1992 Archives - In defense of the Federal Waterways designation for WV rivers

By Ginger Boyles Princeton Times

PRINCETON — In a letter to the editor from Roger Harrison, the Executive Director of the US Forest Service, he explained why 12 rivers in the state of West Virginia were being examined by the service for possible inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

Harrison was responding to some opponents who had stated that designation into the system could result in a ban on hunting and fishing in the river corridors.

Harrison explained that the Forrest Service would have no more rights than they did at the time in regards to hunting and fishing in those areas. He went on to explain exactly what a designation could do for the areas involved.

Harrison explained that the twelve rivers under study were mostly on public lands in the Monongahela National Forrest, and these streams, like many others were, "Subjected to acid rain, acid mine drainage, and excessive sedimentation. "

He also said that the West Virginia Rivers Coalition was seeking, "better fishing,...hunting,...canoeing,...bird watching,...recreation,...and water management."

Furthermore, the goals of the designation included, "Achieving national recognition of one of West Virginia's most outstanding natural resources, protection from unnecessary dams and other projects which degrade water quality and natural habitat, and for a clear and balanced management for all Federal lands in river corridors in order to prevent improper mining and timbering."

The letter concluded by stating that the long-term protection of these waterways provided the best opportunity to reverse the environmental trends of the past decades and could make West Virginia an outdoor recreation mecca for the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Text Only
Pieces from Princeton's Past
Community Calendar
Loading…
Events by eviesays.com
AP Video
Looking for Love? Take the Prague Metro Crews Race to Find Survivors of Okla. Twister First Person: Baby Falcons on a New York Bridge Oklahoma: Images of Devastation, Reunion Reunited Dad, Son: 'We Just Praise God' Slow Pokes: Acupuncture Helps Sick Turtles Moore, Okla. City of Reunions, Tears After Storm Former IRS Chief: Can't Say How List Happened Gov. Fallin: Okla. Facing Horrific Disaster Tim Cook Defends Apple's Tax Accounting AP Photograher: 'It Was a Miracle' They Got Out Raw: Crews Search for Survivors of Okla. Tornado Raw: Tearful Reunion After Okla. Tornado OKC Hospital Describes Treating Tornado Wounded Obama Pledges Urgent Aid for Tornado Victims Raw: Massive Funnel Clouds in Oklahoma