Media Advisory ** Media Advisory ** Media Advisory

Office of the Secretary

Embargoed News for: June 22, 1999

Contact: Tim Ahern, John Wright (202) 208-6416

US, MEXICO TO LAUNCH BINATIONAL WATERSHED PLAN
Babbitt, Carabias Unite in Landmark Protection of "River That Binds Us"

Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt joins Mexico's Environmental Minister Julia Carabias and Mexican Ambassador to the United States Jesus Reyes-Heroles to forge a multi-million dollar partnership that will permanently protect a critical watershed shared by both nations -- and roughly four million birds.

The plan is an unprecedented collaboration that shares funds, information, and conservation expertise between land and resource managers in both countries. Historically, rivers like the Colorado or Rio Grande were sources of conflict; by contrast, this watershed draws the two nations together toward a common goal. Supporting the trans-border initiative are the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, local, state and federal agencies, cooperating landowners and several local and national conservation organizations.

"For centuries before NAFTA, our continent has been united by migratory birds," said Babbitt. "They need riparian corridors as key 'rest stops' on their long, exhausting journeys north or south. Today we insure that more than 400 avian species will forever have this forested watery oasis in which to breed, feed, and catch their breath. Together, we're saving the river that binds us, and that's the real treasure of the Sierra Madre."

For details of exactly who does what, where, how and by when under the public-private initiative, and to obtain a press kit including graphics, slides, B-roll footage, maps and declaration on the watershed, please come to:

Room 7000 on Tuesday, June 22, at 10 a.m. at the
Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street, NW.

The signing ceremony and conference is open to credentialled members of the press.

--DOI--