Musconetcong River

Washington, Mar 29 -

Today the House Resources Committee favorably reported H.R.1307, the Musconetcong Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Congressman Scott Garrett has worked hard to preserve the fragile natural resources of North Jersey and sponsored this bill which would protect the Musconetcong River.

"I am a firm believer in being a good steward of precious resources and the Musconetcong River is one of North Jersey’s most valuable," said Garrett. "This Act would effectively protect and preserve a primary source of drinking water, one of New Jersey’s treasured natural habitats, and a place of recreation for generations past—and I intend—for generations to come."

The Musconetcong Wild and Scenic Rivers Act would help to maintain and improve the water quality of the Musconetcong River and its tributaries, to promote preservation of farmland and open space within the river corridor and watershed and to encourage environmentally-friendly recreation that would benefit the region’s economy.

The Musconetcong River is one of the few remaining untouched spaces in New Jersey, the most densely populated state in the Union. The legislation would not freeze development but would work to preserve the existing character of the river and its surroundings. The House must pass the bill in order for the bill to become law.

"I am hopeful that my colleagues in the House will recognize the positive effect that this bill would have on our nation’s natural heritage and will vote to pass this necessary Act very soon," Garrett further stated.

The Musconetcong is 42 miles in length and flows out of the Highlands region into the Delaware River.