Recognizing the Contributions of the Hudson River Clearwater Sloop

Floor Speech

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Mr. RYAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of the Hudson River Clearwater Sloop--a champion of environmental activism and education that has sailed the Hudson since 1969.

Inspired by folk legend Pete Seeger, the Clearwater Sloop was born out of a deep commitment to protecting the Hudson River, Seeger, alongside his wife Toshi and a cadre of fellow musicians, created a replica of the historic sloops that once sailed the river. Their mission: to let residents experience the beauty of their river and be moved to preserve it.

Throughout its history, the Clearwater has consistently stood as a steward of the Hudson River. In 1970, it set sail for Washington, D.C., with thousands of petitions in support of the federal Clean Water Act. This historic voyage is credited with playing a pivotal role in the adoption of this historic legislation.

From successful campaigns against the Storm King Mountain power plant, standing up against pollution caused by PCB dumping from General Electric, to the thousands of students throughout my district who for generations have learned about the river through their educational programming, the Clearwater has been a beacon of advocacy, education, and it has helped shepherd in the modern environmental movement.

Today, despite its legacy, the future of the Clearwater is uncertain. Financial strain compounded by the challenges from the pandemic threatens to put a ship listed on the National Register of Historic Places out of commission. Despite this threat, hope remains high.

Together with the support of my constituents and the efforts of my office, we are working to not just save the Clearwater but also continue its mission. Last week, the House of Representatives passed my bill, the ``Hudson River Protection Act.'' This vital legislation is yet another example of the challenges and work that lie ahead to ensure that we protect clean drinking water in the Hudson Valley.

As we recognize the work and legacy of Clearwater, I will end today with a line from a song written by its founder ``Some day, though maybe not this year/My Hudson River will once again run clear.''

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