Three years ago we set out to preserve California's Headwaters Forest, the world's largest unprotected stand of old-growth redwoods. Late yesterday we achieved our goal. We completed an agreement with the Pacific Lumber Company to put the Headwaters Forest in public hands and ensure that it will never be logged.
These redwoods are a natural treasure, as much a part of our legacy as the world's great libraries and cathedrals. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Federal and State negotiators, future generations will know the majesty and awe of Headwaters. This ancient forest, and the web of life it sustains, are now saved for all time.
I thank Senator Feinstein and Governor Davis for their critical help in achieving this historic agreement. And I am truly grateful that we are able to bestow this priceless gift on generations yet to come.
NOTE: A portion of the President's statement was made available on the White House Press Office Radio Actuality Line.
William J. Clinton, Statement on the Agreement To Preserve California's Headwaters Forest Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/229038