McDougle Honored for Efforts Against King William Reservoir

Chesapeake Bay Foundation recognizes Delegate’s leadership in opposition to legislation

Richmond, Virginia, May 18: Delegate Ryan T. McDougle (R – Mechanicsville) was recognized recently by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation as a Legislator of the Year. McDougle received the honor in appreciation for his efforts in opposing legislation that sought to create the controversial King William Reservoir. Roy A. Hoagland, Virginia Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, presented the award to McDougle on April 22 during a meeting of the King William Business Association.

“I am honored to be recognized by the Bay Foundation,” McDougle said. “I worked against this legislation because I am concerned about the adverse affects the proposed reservoir would have on the people of my district. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation has been a loyal partner in this fight and I am grateful for their tireless work opposing this legislation.”

“The leadership and dedication to the Bay that Delegate McDougle demonstrated in opposing reservoir legislation was extraordinary and inspirational,” said Hoagland. “He displayed true political courage. Without his guidance and commitment, it is likely that proponents of the King William Reservoir legislation would have prevailed.”

Delegate McDougle has long fought the proposed King William Reservoir, which is being advocated by the City of Newport News as a means to enhance their water supply. If built, the reservoir would destroy hundreds of acres of Chesapeake Bay wetlands and threaten the Mattaponi River. After permits for the reservoir were denied last year, three bills were introduced before the General Assembly this session seeking to bypass the regulatory process and construct the reservoir. Delegate McDougle worked side-by-side with constituents and groups like the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to ensure the defeat of these bills. Ultimately, all three bills were killed in committee votes.

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Legislator of the Year Awards are presented to lawmakers who have made outstanding efforts in the General Assembly to improve the health and resources of the Chesapeake Bay. As part of the Award, Delegate McDougle received a signed and framed print by Chesapeake Bay artist John Barber.

“The Bay Foundation relied heavily on Delegate McDougle for his environmental leadership during the legislative session,” Hoagland said. “We are pleased to recognize him for his service and dedication towards saving the Bay.”

“It is truly an honor to receive this award,” McDougle said, “But the true credit for defeating this legislation goes to the many citizens who were concerned enough to contact their legislators and to attend committee hearings to show their opposition to these bills. Without their efforts, these bills may have passed.”

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