Bill > S1476

This bill designates multiple segments of the Gila River system in New Mexico as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, covering approximately 30 different river and creek segments with varying classifications such as wild, recreational, and scenic rivers. These segments are located in areas like Apache Creek, Black Canyon Creek, Diamond Creek, and others, totaling nearly 300 miles of waterways. The bill includes provisions that protect existing rights, such as grazing permits, water rights, and mining activities, and ensures that the designations do not negatively impact current land uses or treaty rights of Native American tribes. Additionally, the bill transfers administrative jurisdiction of approximately 440 acres of land from the U.S. Forest Service to the National Park Service, modifying the boundaries of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Gila National Forest. The legislation also allows for native fish habitat restoration projects within these newly designated river segments, provided they do not significantly diminish the rivers' free-flowing nature or outstanding characteristics. The bill is named after M.H. Dutch Salmon, likely a local conservationist or environmental advocate, and aims to preserve the ecological and scenic value of this important river system in New Mexico.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1476/all-info