WEST GREENWICH, R.I. (AP) - A coalition is pushing for a Rhode Island watershed to be labeled as a National Wild and Scenic River, which if approved, would make it the first river system in the state to be part of the conservation program.
The Providence Journal reports environmental groups, state agencies and town officials will make their case Monday as to why the Wood-Pawcatuck watershed should be part of the program.
Denise Poyer, executive director of the Wood-Pawcatuck River Watershed Association, says the watershed has 70 percent of the state’s endangered species, 52 miles of canoeable rivers as well as hiking areas.
The federal designation would help guarantee funding for the watershed as well as protection against certain developments.
Currently, 208 rivers in 40 states are a part of the program.
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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.providencejournal.com
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