Taunton River Coalition leaders applaud Wild and Scenic designation

"To the many people who have been involved in bringing the Taunton River back into the public eye over the past twenty years, this is the fulfillment of a dream. Through this designation, the river has gained a voice and the public has received an affirmation of its commitment to the stewardship of this great river. It is also an occasion to reflect upon the hard work of those like Congressman Joe Moakley, who helped to make this day possible, but are no longer here with us to share in the joy." -- Bill Napolitano of the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD).

"The Taunton River is the cornerstone of a 562 square mile freshwater system, providing essential services like water filtration, flood protection and recreation to 38 towns. This designation will go a long way toward ensuring its future health and sustainable management." -- Wayne Klockner, director of The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts.

Jack Clarke, Director of Public Policy and Government Relations for Mass Audubon noted the river's abundant fisheries, rich and diverse ecosystem, remarkable scenic beauty and the forty-miles of free-flowing water that makes the Taunton the longest undammed coastal river in New England. "These attributes were key to gaining the Wild and Scenic designation," he said. "Connecting half a million residents of the watershed to each other, the river is also a great place for people to recreate and enjoy wilderness in the heart of southeastern Massachusetts."

"The decades-long battle to save the Taunton is locally rooted, but the River is a regional treasure that connects Southeastern Massachusetts to the ocean via Narragansett Bay… We're grateful to the Rhode Island delegation for recognizing that connection and working with their colleagues in Massachusetts to make this victory ours." -- John Torgan, Bay Keeper of Save the Bay—Narragansett Bay.

“Yes -- perseverance, hard work, vision, determination, essence, vitality, community, planning, strategy, communication, networking support in all the right places! Great Work to all you believers and warriors! Congratulations! a long road well traveled.” -- Pine duBois, Jones River Watershed Association.

“We're very pleased that Congress has recognized the importance of protecting the Taunton River and we are proud of the many groups that we have worked with and supported to win this designation. Their ongoing collaborative efforts to promote, protect and restore the natural beauty and health of the river and its watershed are strong and effective." -- Laura Gang, Executive Director of the Sheehan Family Foundation.