American Rivers statement on confirmation of Ryan Zinke as Secretary of the Interior

March 1, 2017

Contact: Amy Kober, 503-708-1145

Washington – The Senate today confirmed Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) as Secretary of the Interior, to oversee conservation and management of thousands of miles of rivers and 500 million acres of public lands including national parks, wildlife refuges and the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

“We congratulate Secretary Zinke on his confirmation and look forward to working with him to protect and restore the rivers that are vital to our communities and future generations,” said Bob Irvin, President of American Rivers.

“The Secretary of the Interior plays a crucial role in the management of our nation’s rivers and water supplies. Rivers provide clean drinking water for two-thirds of Americans. They are economic engines for local businesses, and backyard escapes for families to experience the joy of the outdoors. As an angler, Secretary Zinke knows this firsthand. We urge him to prioritize the restoration, protection and stewardship of our nation’s rivers and water resources,” Irvin said.

ABOUT AMERICAN RIVERS

American Rivers protects wild rivers, restores damaged rivers and conserves clean water for people and nature. Since 1973, American Rivers has protected and restored more than 150,000 miles of rivers through advocacy efforts, on-the-ground projects and an annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers® campaign. Headquartered in Washington, DC, American Rivers has offices across the country and more than 250,000 members, supporters and volunteers.

Rivers connect us to each other, nature, and future generations. Find your connections at AmericanRivers.org, Facebook.com/AmericanRivers and Twitter.com/AmericanRivers.