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Waterways Restoration Act of 1994 

 H.R. 4289 



landscape. The benefits of riparian forestland and waterway restoration extend beyond flood 

 control and water quality protection. These riparian areas also store water and provide shade 

 and temperature stabilization for water, as well as afford essential habitat for birds, animals, 

 fish, plants, and humans. 



The 75%-25% Federal/non-Federal cost share ratio stated in H.R. 4289 for voluntary non- 

 structural, community-based projects is admirable. However, SAF does have some 

 reservations about the source of Federal funding for this program. SAF is pleased that no 

 new forms of taxation are suggested, however, we are concerned about how the Soil 

 Conservation Service will reallocate its budget to pay for the program, and how this 

 reallocation of funds will affect the structure and effectiveness of the agency. The potential 

 effects of the budget re-allocation must be given serious consideration in the debate over the 

 bill's language. 



In conclusion, the Society of American Foresters believes that the restoration of our nation's 

 watercourses is an important part of conserving its natural resources, and is best served 

 through voluntary, non-regulatory approach. Furthermore, dispensing Federal cost-share 

 assistance for this type of beneficial program, independent of other cost-share programs 

 already in place, is a reasoned and necessary step for providing environmental protection, as 

 long as the funding does not adversely affect the existing environmental initiatives of other 

 federal agencies. 



The Society of American Foresters appreciates the opportunity to make our position known 

 to Congress, and urges you to support the broad concept of H.R. 4289, the Waterways 

 Restoration Act of 1994, while at the same time taking a critical look at the impact the 

 legislation will have on the budget allocations of the Soil Conservation Service. 



