S.1681 - Shenandoah Mountain Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Shenandoah Mountain Act aims to establish the Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area in Virginia, protecting approximately 92,562 acres of National Forest System land. It also designates five new wilderness areas within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The Act outlines specific purposes for the scenic area, including preserving scenic and water quality, protecting wildlife habitats, and improving recreational opportunities.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased environmental protection and enhanced recreational opportunities in the Shenandoah Mountain region. It restricts certain activities like timber harvesting and new road construction within the scenic area. The establishment of the National Scenic Area and Wilderness Areas could also affect local economies and land management practices.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Environmental Protection: Protects water quality, wildlife habitats, and old-growth forests.
- Improved Recreational Opportunities: Maintains and improves nonmotorized trails and recreation sites.
- Preservation of Natural Beauty: Ensures the scenic quality of the Shenandoah Mountain area.
- Economic Benefits from Tourism: Increased tourism due to the area's enhanced appeal.
- Designation of Wilderness Areas: Protects additional areas under the Wilderness Act.
Potential Disadvantages
- Restrictions on Resource Use: Limits timber harvesting, mineral leasing, and energy development.
- Potential Economic Impact on Local Industries: Restrictions may affect industries reliant on resource extraction.
- Limited Road Construction: No new roads can be built, potentially hindering access for some users.
- Potential Conflicts with Private Landowners: Restrictions on federal land use may affect access to private land within the area.
- Increased Management Costs: Managing the scenic area and wilderness areas may require additional resources.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Shenandoah Mountain Act aligns with the Property Clause (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate and dispose of federal lands. The Act's provisions for managing the National Scenic Area and Wilderness Areas fall within this constitutional authority. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).