Wild & Scenic 50th Anniversary Update!
Today is the 50th Anniversary of the historic passage of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, signed into law on October 2, 1968. Established in 1954, one of American Whitewater’s founding principles was to, “encourage the exploration, enjoyment, and preservation of America’s recreational waterways for human-powered craft.” So, it should come as no surprise that paddlers, including our founders, were among the first to advocate for a national system designed to protect pristine and free-flowing rivers. American Whitewater was there to help craft the legislation, and we’re still hanging around a half-century later making sure new Wild and Scenic protections are extended to deserving rivers at every opportunity. Celebrate Wild and Scenic Rivers with us today and check out our update on Wild and Scenic happenings below!
Run Wild, Run Free: Today and tomorrow only, in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, watch the brand new film, Run Wild Run Free: 50 years of Wild and Scenic Rivers — in it’s entirety!
Limited Edition AW Wild & Scenic Gear: Going Oldschool! Available this week only, limited edition American Whitewater Wild & Scenic 50th Anniversary commemorative shirts, tanks and hoodies for both ladies and men! Support wild rivers and earn style points at the same time!
Support New Wild and Scenic Designations: Right now in Congress Wild and Scenic bills are being marked up in Natural Resource Committees. Take action today by using American Whitewater’s ultra-easy form to call on Congress to create new Wild and Scenic legislation and know that hearing from constituents right now could help move these bills forward towards full votes.
Success on East Rosebud Creek (MT): The President’s signature marked the exciting finale of nearly a decade of efforts to protect Montana’s East Rosebud Creek from hydropower development and other impacts. Twenty miles of this beautiful stream were designated as a Wild and Scenic River. East Rosebud is treasured by local residents, paddlers, anglers, hikers, and other visitors.
Help Identify Rivers For Wild & Scenic Eligibility and Protections: Every 20 years or so each National Forest puts together a new management plan that includes a list of streams the agency will protect for potential future congressional designation as Wild and Scenic Rivers. This is our opportunity to share the recreational, scenic, historic and cultural values of our favorite waterways so we can get them added to the list of Wild and Scenic “eligible” streams that the Forest Service will protect. The Forest Service will be making pivotal decisions on forest plans in California, Montana, Idaho, Colorado, and North Carolina soon. Contact your local Forest Service office to engage in the Forest Planning process today!
Enjoy a Wild and Scenic River Today–Work Towards Its Protection For Tomorrow!
