Eightmile now 'Wild and Scenic' River, Norwich Bulletin

Eightmile now 'Wild and Scenic' River

By Michael Gannon

Norwich Bulletin

May 9, 2008

SALEM — President Bush has signed legislation designating the Eightmile River watershed as a federally recognized Wild and Scenic River.

The original bill, introduced in February 2007, was the first bill put forth by freshman U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd District. Thursday, Courtney said it was a victory for the entire state.

"This is a terrific moment for the Eightmile River watershed and the many advocates who for 10 years have fought for its preservation," said Courtney in a joint statement with Anthony Irving, chairman of the Eightmile Wild and Scenic Coordinating Committee.

The law affords the watershed additional environmental protection. It also allows environmental groups access to an expanded number of funding programs for preservation.

"The real success of this designation is the many people from the towns who have supported, worked on and made this designation a reality," Irving said. "With so many believers, the future protection of the river system is in good and capable hands."

"Eastern Connecticut is fortunate to be the home of some of the most pristine natural environmental settings in our state," Courtney said. "The Eightmile River is a crown jewel that deserves to be preserved and protected."

U.S. Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Conn., whom Courtney credited with getting the bill through the Senate, was equally pleased.

"The Eightmile River is one of nature's great works of art," Dodd said in a statement. "And today we have ensured that it will be preserved and protected for both present and future generations to enjoy."

Reach Michael Gannon at 425-4231 or mgannon@norwichbulletin.com.