American Rivers Issues Statement on Withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement

WASHINGTON, June 2 -- American Rivers issued the following statement by President Bob Irvin on President Trump's withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement:

"In withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, President Trump is abdicating the responsibility of the United States to be a global leader and is putting our nation's health, economy and national security at risk. Far from making America great again, his decision will leave our planet worse for future generations."

"Climate change is here now, and is already impacting our rivers and clean water supplies. Without bold action to stop climate change, more severe floods and droughts, more waterborne diseases, and increasingly scarce water supplies will threaten communities in the United States and around the world."

"The president's head-in-the-sand approach to climate change contrasts sharply with the leadership and moral courage of countless individuals, businesses and cities that are working tirelessly to stop dirty fossil fuel pollution and strengthen communities against climate impacts including increased flooding and drought."

"American Rivers will continue to stand with these local leaders, and we will continue helping communities build their resilience with innovative river conservation solutions. We will work to ensure the United States remains a global leader in river restoration and protection, because a healthy river is a community's best defense against the impacts of climate change."