For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 31, 2002
National Fishing and Boating Week, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Our Nation's landscape contains thousands of bodies of water that
offer endless opportunities for recreational boating and fishing.
Every year, millions of Americans, including me, look forward to
enjoying these popular pastimes.
In addition to providing opportunities for recreation, fishing and
boating play important roles in our Nation's economy. They support
thousands of American jobs and generate millions of dollars that go
directly back to protecting and conserving resources at the local
level. Since 1950, State fish and wildlife agencies have received
nearly $4 billion through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration
Act. These funds have helped to purchase over 322,000 acres for
boating, fishing and fish production, and research. In addition,
funding has been used to help educate the public about fish and their
habitats. These measures enhance the quality of life for people of all
ages and continue a vital legacy of environmental stewardship.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2 through June
8, 2002, as National Fishing and Boating Week. During this week, I
encourage people of the United States to participate in the thousands
of local events scheduled in communities throughout the United States,
offering hands-on opportunities for families and friends to share in
these recreational activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first
day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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