»the way
JASON HOUSTON
FORWARD With a river, it’s use it or lose it. Polluters assume possession of a waterway when people stop swimming and boating, catching and eating the fish. The public perception that a waterbody is ‘dead’ is a self-fulfilling prophecy. With the public off the water, government officials can downgrade protection and use the waterway as a sewer. The law is clear, but law enforcement is weak. Citizens must stay on the water to exercise their rights as owners and stewards of our waterways. So get out there. Assert your ownership. And enjoy. W
www.waterkeeper.org
Spring 2007 Waterkeeper Magazine
53
