Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) issued the following statement applauding the Administration’s announcement that Plan 2014 implementation will move forward:
“Plan 2014 is critical to our local economic growth in addition to good environmental policy, and I applaud this important decision,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. “Better regulating the water levels of the St. Lawrence will ensure that users — from boaters to commercial fisherman — can continue to enjoy the river. Lowering the impact of invasive species will ensure that outdoor recreationalists can enjoy the river for decades to come. Additionally, The Nature Conservancy estimates that Plan 2014 will result in an increase of $12 million in economic value for New York, and it has strong support from businesses and Chambers of Commerce across our region.
“In the North Country, we are fortunate to be surrounded by many ecological treasures. Protecting these gems for future generations is a job I take very seriously. I thank Save the River and the entire river community for their important work on this issue.”
“I cannot overstate the importance of today’s announcement. Enactment of Plan 2014 is the most significant environmental and economic advancement the St. Lawrence River has seen in over 50 years,” said Lee Willbanks, Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper and Executive Director of Save The River. “I, also, cannot thank Congresswoman Stefanik enough. A steadfast supporter of Plan 2014, the Congresswoman has remained the most important elected official to support the plan. This could not have been done without her involvement.”
“Plan 2014 is the greatest opportunity in a lifetime to secure the future of one of our Great Lakes, and the governments of United States and Canada have wisely seized this opportunity to use nature to undo 50 years of damage to some of our most valuable natural treasures. Without costing taxpayers a cent, Plan 2014 promises millions in additional annual economic activity for Upstate New York,” said Stuart F. Gruskin, The Nature Conservancy’s Chief Conservation and External Affairs Officer in New York.
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