Vermont And New Hampshire Senators
Introduce Bill To Advance Conservation
Along The Upper Connecticut River

WASHINGTON (Monday, June 11) – The U.S. Senators from Vermont and New Hampshire Monday introduced the Upper Connecticut River Partnership Act of 2007, legislation that would help conserve the largest ecosystem in New England.

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) was joined by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.) and Sen. John Sununu (R-N.H.) in introducing the bipartisan legislation, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to give technical and financial help for the Upper Connecticut River through the Connecticut River Joint Commissions.  The Joint Commissions consist of New Hampshire's Connecticut River Valley Resource Commission and Vermont's Connecticut River Watershed Advisory Commission.  Since 1989 the two advisory panels have been working cooperatively in promoting stewardship to protect the Connecticut River. 

Companion legislation was introduced Monday in the House of Representatives by Reps. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Paul Hodes (D-N.H.).  The legislation passed the Senate in the last Congress but did not make it all the way through Congress to the President’s desk for signing.

Leahy said, “I’m glad that once again our two states are united in advancing this bill in the Senate.  Vermont and New Hampshire have a long history of working together for the communities along the river.  This legislation will help us chart the way forward to preserve the natural and economic vitality of the Connecticut River Valley for generations to come.”

Gregg said, “The Connecticut River watershed contains some of the most beautiful, and environmentally sensitive lands in New Hampshire and the northeast.  For centuries the River and its surrounding areas have been critical to the growth of the region.  Protecting the land and its cultural treasures is important not only for all of us to enjoy today, but for future generations to experience in the future.  This initiative will assist individuals and local organizations like the Connecticut River Joint Commissions Partnership Program in identifying critical environmental or historic areas within the watershed.”     

Sununu said, “Protecting the Upper Connecticut is an environmental priority on both sides of the river.  Working cooperatively, the Joint Commissions advance public and private efforts to safeguard this great natural resource, which benefits residents and visitors alike.  This legislation will help ensure that New Hampshire and Vermont organizations are able to continue their work protecting the Upper Connecticut River.”

Sanders said, “Sanders said, “This legislation will promote our ability to protect the Connecticut River and I am pleased to be part of this bi-state, tri-partisan approach.  The additional resources that this bill would authorize are a critical component to ensuring a sound future for the river.”

Text of Legislation

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