Delaware River Grant Announcement Congressional Quotes

September 20, 2021

New Jersey

Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ):

“For decades, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has led the charge to protect our outdoor spaces. The Delaware River Program is a landmark part of their conservation efforts here in New Jersey,” said Representative Mikie Sherrill. “Today’s announcement from NFWF and its partners of nearly $11.5 million in grant money for projects across the Delaware River watershed will be vital in continuing this work. As we confront the effects of the climate crisis, the restoration and protection of waterways like this one and the protection of wildlife habitats will take coordination from every level of government, NGOs, and our local communities. I’m proud to have NFWF and these organizations as a partner in that fight.”

Representative Jefferson H. Van Drew (R-NJ):

“I look forward to the federal government continuing to invest in the Delaware River Watershed so the economy and environment of the surrounding areas can flourish,” said Congressman Jefferson Van Drew. “A large portion of my district depends on the watershed; its unique and diverse ecology must be protected to ensure that the wildlife and communities that live within the watershed are preserved for future generations.”

Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ):

"The Delaware River is a vital feature of our region, something that New Jersey, New York, Delaware and Pennsylvania have all come together to protect,” said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. “Defending it is an investment in our environment, a step toward protecting our natural resources, and a tool to reverse the impact of various manmade threats to the river, ensuring the Delaware can be appreciated and enjoyed for generations to come.”

Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ):

"The Delaware River is one of South Jersey’s most precious natural resources,” said Congressman Donald Norcross, an original cosponsor of the Delaware River Basin Conservation Act, which was signed into law in 2016. “With over 150 miles of shoreline along Delaware Bay and the Delaware River, New Jersey residents benefit daily from its conservation. The river and its tributaries, like the Cooper River, provide clean drinking water, outdoor recreation, and business that collectively generate billions in regional economic impact – which is why it’s vital to protect its waters for future generations.”

New York

Representative Claudia Tenney (R-NY):

“Central New York and the Southern Tier are home to such rich natural beauty, and it is incumbent upon each of us to protect and preserve the outdoors and our environment for future generations,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “The grants announced today will play a significant role in preserving the Delaware River watershed and ensuring we maintain a clean ecosystem for wildlife to thrive. I’m honored to play a part in these conservation efforts.” 

Pennsylvania

Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA):

“I am thrilled to see nearly $11.5 million in funding awarded to so many incredible local projects focused on cleaning up and restoring polluted waters, enhancing our local ecosystems, and increasing public access to nature throughout the Delaware River Watershed,” said Representative Mary Gay Scanlon. “The strategic partnerships formed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation through both the Delaware River Restoration Fund and the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund are encouraging for the Watershed's future, and I’m proud to provide my continued support. Collaborative relationships like this one are critical to restoring and conserving the Delaware River Watershed and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our region.”

Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA):

“Clean water is foundational for our community’s health, and good for our region’s economy,” said Representative Cartwright. “These federal investments will enable more people to enjoy the recreational opportunities the Delaware River Watershed has to offer in Northeastern Pennsylvania, support recreation jobs and clean up pollution. As Pennsylvania’s appropriator, I will continue to support funding to protect the Watershed for generations to come.”

Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA):

“I can't overstate how thrilled I am to see projects I've supported in our district receive funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation,” said Representative Chrissy Houlahan. “Protecting our precious natural resources benefits every member of our community and is something people on both sides of the aisle can agree on. This funding will enhance our waterways and ecosystems for generations to come, and I look forward to seeing what progress organizations in our community will make with this funding.”