Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Mid Hudson) announced that she has introduced legislation that would define Wappinger Creek as an inland waterway (A.8315) – this bill is supported in the senate by State Senator Terry Gipson (D). The creek, which is vital to the local ecosystem and economy, has been polluted over time due to upstream development. By defining it as an inland waterway, federal funding can be secured to clean up pollution, revitalize the waterfront and manage wastewater. It will also help in flood prevention, which will allow more land to be used for new businesses, helping the local economy grow.

“As Dutchess County’s largest watershed, Wappinger Creek is vitally important to our environment and our economy,” Assemblymember Barrett said. “Designating the watershed as an inland waterway will pave the way for federal grants that will bring much-needed revitalization to our community, save local taxpayer dollars and help local businesses grow.”

Assemblymember Barrett has a strong voting record in favor of environmental protections. That’s why Environmental Advocates of New York awarded her a “perfect score” in 2013 for her commitment to environmental legislation.

“Here in the Hudson Valley, our beautiful, natural landscapes have shaped our way of life for generations,” noted Assemblymember Barrett. “I will continue to fight for this, and any other measure that helps protect our environment while helping to bolster the local economy.”