Broun, Barrow, and Duncan Oppose Demolition of New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam

Statement

U.S. Congressmen Paul Broun, M.D. (GA-10), John Barrow (GA-12), and Jeff Duncan (SC-03) today released the following statements in response to the recommendation of the NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service to demolish the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam:

Congressman Paul Broun: "As a Representative of the Central Savannah River Area and as a Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, I will adamantly oppose any proposition to destroy the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. The Savannah River, specifically the 17 mile pool stretching back from the Lock and Dam, has been a vital part of our region's economic growth and development for decades.

"Demolishing the Lock and Dam would be a travesty, destroying our thriving local economy, harming our riverbanks, and leaving thousands of residents from Georgia and South Carolina without proper access to drinking water. In these tough economic times, it's critical that we protect our precious resources and work tirelessly to maintain the prosperity of the Central Savannah River Area."

Congressman John Barrow: "For nearly 75 years the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam has defined Augusta's relationship with the river. We rely on the dam to support virtually everything we use the river for - drinking water, recreation, and economic growth. Doing away with the dam would change the river as we know it, and leave us all high and dry. I oppose its removal, and I'll work with Paul to protect it."

Congressman Jeff Duncan: "I strongly oppose the demolition of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. The dam provides both a foundation for economic development and a lifeline to the community through its contribution to the water supply. The Lock and Dam is a resource to the community that should be protected and enhanced."

Source