Idaho’s Snake River is #3 Most Endangered U.S. River in 2009

April 8, 2009.

From outdated flood control schemes to harmful dams and mining projects, our nation’s rivers and clean water are at risk. American Rivers, the nation’s leading river conservation organization, today released America’s Most Endangered Rivers: 2009 edition spotlighting ten rivers in need of urgent action.

“Our nation is at a transformational moment when it comes to rivers and clean water,” said Rebecca Wodder, president of American Rivers. “Water is life, yet our nation’s water infrastructure is so outdated that our clean drinking water, flood protection and river health face unprecedented threats. Our country needs the smart, cost-effective solutions for clean drinking water, flood protection and river health outlined in America’s Most Endangered Rivers that will bring us into the 21st century.”

This year’s report highlights the sorry state of the nation’s water infrastructure — our drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems, and our dams and levees – and the need for green, 21st century investments to protect clean water, public health and safety, and the fish and wildlife that depend on healthy rivers.

Rivers in Alaska, California, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Washington and Wisconsin are on the list this year.

“Being named as one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers is not an end for the river, but rather a beginning,” added Wodder. “With the listing comes a national spotlight and action from thousands of citizens across the country. These ten rivers have a chance to be reborn, and to serve as models for other rivers all across America.”

America’s Most Endangered Rivers: 2009 edition is sponsored by Orvis, the oldest mail order company in the US which has been outfitting customers for the sporting traditions since 1856.

“Orvis is proud to support this call to action to protect and restore the rivers that are so essential to our nation’s businesses, heritage, and recreation. Conservation is one of our company’s core values and partnering with American Rivers is a natural fit,” said Perk Perkins, CEO of Orvis.

For further detailed information, visit the American Rivers website here or contact Amy Kober, 206-213-0330 x23, akober@americanrivers.org.

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