DEERFIELD, Mass. - The Deerfield River runs from Southern Vermont, through the Berkshire Mountains and into the Connecticut River.

It’s an important natural resource the Deerfield River Watershed Association wants to see protected. They’re advocating for "National Wild and Scenic River" status which comes with federal funding.

Vice President Christopher Curtis said it’s important because severe weather has caused some damage.

"Some of the tributaries were heavily impacted by Hurricane Irene and river banks were washed out," said Curtis. "Our organization has done several projects already to restore some of the areas and replant them. But that has happened with climate change, we're getting more severe storms and the rivers are being heavily affected by them."

Curtis said the river also holds historical significance in New England. It’s known for its trout fishing and it runs along what was once a travel route for Native Americans.

He said 18 different towns between Massachusetts and Vermont have endorsed a bill to better preserve the body of water.​

"They're supportive because they feel the river is a special asset to their communities," Curtis said. "They want to see it protected and ultimately it will bring in resources and federal funding to help do that and to help protect the river and restore sections of the river, and provide for recreational access to the river."​​

Monday, Congressman James McGovern announced he’s introducing the legislation to study adding the Deerfield River to the federal system. He said the goal is to create a focus on conservation and preserving nature for future generations.

He also said it will provide economic opportunities for communities along the river.

"To come from all over New England. From all over the country," McGovern said. "To fish here, and to boat here, and to see how beautiful this is, and that as you know has a ripple effect in terms of signaling other economic activity in the area."

Curtis said the process of getting the bill passed could take between three to five years. He said if this bill is approved, the next step will be to create a study and management plan to bring to Congress for a second bill to receive the actual designation.