House Republican Press Release

March 10, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Richard Ferrari supports scenic designation for Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook

State Rep. Richard Ferrari (R-62) and State Rep. Ruth Fahrbach (R-61) recently submitted testimony to the legislature’s Environment Committee in support of H.B. 5143, An Act Concerning the Designation of the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Within the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

The Farmington River and Salmon Brook are important resources, both for its historical and recreational value.  The upper portion of the Farmington River between Colebrook and Canton was designated in 1994 as “Wild and Scenic” by the U.S. Congress.  The Lower Farmington River & Salmon Brook Wild & Scenic Study Committee has been working since 2003 to advocate for the same designation as the upper Farmington River.

“The Farmington River and Salmon Brook are among our most cherished natural resources, and recognition as “Wild and Scenic” will make sure these waterways remain a place for our citizens to enjoy for years to come,” said Rep. Ferrari.

“I strongly support this legislation, and I would also like to thank those who are serving on the study committee working to achieve this designation for the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook,” said Rep. Fahrbach.

The study committee is made up of dedicated residents in the towns of Avon, Bloomfield, Burlington, Canton, East Granby, Farmington, Granby, Hartland, Simsbury, and Windsor. They have volunteered their time and extensive knowledge of the river in working towards this designation and protecting this irreplaceable asset to the Farmington Valley and the rest of our state. Others who worked on the study committee also shared their perspective with the Environment Committee and provided a more detailed account of what this designation represents and its impact to our state.