Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act
Summary
The Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act reaffirms the Bureau of Reclamation's exclusive ownership, operational control, and financial responsibility for the Lower Yellowstone Fish Bypass Channel. This channel is designed to aid the endangered pallid sturgeon and other native aquatic species in the Yellowstone River. The Act aims to protect the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project and District from undue financial and operational burdens related to the bypass channel.
Expected Effects
This act will ensure that the Bureau of Reclamation remains solely responsible for the bypass channel's operations and maintenance. It prevents the transfer of these responsibilities or associated costs to the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation District or Project. The Act also authorizes appropriations for the channel's ongoing operation, maintenance, and improvements.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures the long-term conservation of endangered pallid sturgeon and other native aquatic species.
- Protects the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project and District from unexpected financial burdens.
- Clarifies federal responsibility for endangered species recovery efforts.
- Provides dedicated funding for the operation and maintenance of the fish bypass channel.
- Prevents potential legal disputes over responsibility for the bypass channel.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the flexibility of future administrations to explore alternative management strategies for the bypass channel.
- Could potentially create a dependency on federal funding for the bypass channel's long-term sustainability.
- Might not fully address all potential environmental impacts or concerns related to the bypass channel.
- The authorized appropriation of $1,000,000 per year may be insufficient for all necessary repairs and upgrades.
- Could lead to a lack of local involvement in the management of the bypass channel.
Constitutional Alignment
This Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting both environmental conservation and economic stability for local irrigation projects. It also aligns with Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8) by managing water resources that affect interstate commerce. The Act's focus on endangered species conservation is consistent with federal responsibilities under existing environmental laws.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).