H.R.1612 - Flatside Wilderness Additions Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1612, the Flatside Wilderness Additions Act, designates approximately 2,212 acres of land in the Ouachita National Forest as part of the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness. This act amends the Arkansas Wilderness Act of 1984 to include this addition. The bill also clarifies that the Secretary of Agriculture's authority regarding fire, insects, and diseases within the wilderness area remains unchanged.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this act is the expansion of the Flatside Wilderness area, providing increased protection for the designated land. This may lead to enhanced conservation efforts and recreational opportunities. The act also renames the area to Flatside-Bethune Wilderness.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Conservation: Protects an additional 2,212 acres of the Ouachita National Forest.
- Recreational Opportunities: May improve opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- Preservation of Biodiversity: Helps preserve the natural habitat and biodiversity of the region.
- Clarification of Authority: Maintains the Secretary of Agriculture's authority to address fire, insects, and diseases.
- Symbolic Value: Designates the area as wilderness, highlighting its ecological importance.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Restrictions: May impose restrictions on land use, such as logging or resource extraction.
- Limited Access: Could limit motorized vehicle access in the designated area.
- Economic Impact: Possible negative impact on local economies dependent on resource extraction.
- Administrative Costs: Increased administrative costs for managing the expanded wilderness area.
- Potential for Increased Wildfire Risk: Restrictions on active forest management could increase wildfire risk.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the constitutional power of Congress to manage federal lands, as outlined in Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, also known as the Property Clause. This clause grants Congress the authority to dispose of and regulate territory or other property belonging to the United States. The designation of wilderness areas falls under this purview. There are no apparent conflicts with other constitutional provisions.
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).