H.R.2903 - M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2903, the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act, aims to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act by designating specific segments of the Gila River system in New Mexico as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The bill also provides for the transfer of administrative jurisdiction over approximately 440 acres of federal land from the Department of Agriculture (Forest Service) to the Department of the Interior (National Park Service), specifically impacting the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Gila National Forest. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be increased protection and conservation of the designated segments of the Gila River system. This would likely lead to restrictions on development and resource extraction within the designated areas. Furthermore, the transfer of land will adjust the boundaries of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Gila National Forest, potentially enhancing the monument's interpretive and recreational opportunities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of the Gila River ecosystem and its biodiversity.
- Increased recreational opportunities related to the wild and scenic river designation.
- Potential for increased tourism revenue due to the enhanced status of the Gila River.
- Preservation of cultural and historical resources within the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
- Improved management and conservation of the transferred land under the National Park Service.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential restrictions on economic activities such as mining, logging, and grazing within the designated river segments.
- Possible conflicts with existing water rights and land use practices.
- Increased regulatory burden for landowners and businesses operating near the designated areas.
- Potential for increased visitation to the area, leading to overcrowding and environmental degradation if not properly managed.
- Possible delays or complications in implementing native fish habitat restoration projects due to regulatory hurdles.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the US Constitution through Congress's power to manage federal lands and waters, as inferred from Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territory and property belonging to the United States. The designation of wild and scenic rivers and the transfer of administrative jurisdiction are actions within the scope of this power. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect existing rights, including water rights and treaty rights, which aligns with the Fifth Amendment's protection of private property and the government's treaty obligations.
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).