American Rivers calls for unified action on clean water and infrastructure investment for strong, safe communities
American Rivers statement on election of Donald Trump as next President
November 6, 2024
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
(Washington, DC) – Following the election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, American Rivers released a set of priorities for his administration to protect the rivers on which all life depends, and the clean water that is our country’s greatest source of natural wealth.
“Rivers offer a chance for divided communities to come together around desperately needed solutions. American Rivers looks forward to working with President-elect Trump and all of our elected leaders to make every community in our country stronger, safer, and healthier by investing in clean water and healthy rivers,” said Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers.
Defending our water security: a blueprint to deliver clean water, strong infrastructure, and safe communities outlines four key priorities:
- Ensure America has the cleanest water in the world
- Invest in infrastructure and build smart
- Make America more safe and secure
- Help energy providers lead long-term
“A clean, flowing river is a community’s superpower, keeping families healthy by delivering reliable drinking water, safeguarding homes and businesses from flood damage, and providing economic opportunity and access to nature,” Kiernan said. “But too many communities lack access to safe, clean water and rivers, and that is holding our country back.”
Pollution and poor planning decisions are poisoning our water supplies. Just in the last month, record hurricanes and floods claimed hundreds of lives and devastated communities. Drought along the Colorado River and low water levels on the Mississippi River threaten billions in economic activity.
“There has never been more urgent need for action to protect the rivers at the heart of our nation’s security, economy, health, and heritage. At American Rivers, we are committed to advancing good ideas for clean water and rivers, and stopping bad ones,” said Kiernan. “We are dedicated to working with the new administration and with leaders across the political spectrum at all levels of government to advance positive, bipartisan solutions for rivers and communities.”
Nearly everyone in our country lives within a mile of a river, but too few know what their river provides. Most of our drinking water comes directly from rivers, and natural river habitats support communities, animals, and plants. Farms, ranches, and businesses all depend on reliable water supplies.
About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org