S.1787 - Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1787, the Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act, seeks to establish the Dolores River National Conservation Area and the Dolores River Special Management Area in Colorado. The bill aims to protect private water rights within the state while conserving and enhancing the natural resources of the designated areas. It outlines management plans, advisory councils, and technical modifications to potential additions to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Expected Effects
The Act will lead to the creation of two protected areas along the Dolores River, each with its own management plan and advisory council. This will likely result in increased conservation efforts, regulated recreational activities, and continued protection of existing water rights. The bill also releases certain segments of the Dolores River from further study for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Conservation: Protects and enhances native fish, watershed, and wildlife habitats.
- Recreational Opportunities: Preserves whitewater boating, hunting, and fishing resources.
- Water Rights Protection: Explicitly protects existing private and tribal water rights.
- Advisory Council: Establishes a local advisory council for community input into management plans.
- Cultural Preservation: Conserves archaeological, historical, and cultural resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Land Use Restrictions: Limits motorized vehicle use and road construction, potentially impacting access for some users.
- Potential Economic Impact: Withdraws covered land from mineral leasing and mining, potentially affecting local economies.
- Bureaucratic Oversight: Creates new layers of management and regulation, which could slow down project approvals.
- Federal Control: Increases federal control over land use decisions in the designated areas.
- Complexity: The Act's multiple sections and definitions may lead to confusion and legal challenges.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate federal lands. The protection of tribal rights also aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes. The bill avoids infringing on private property rights by including provisions for willing sellers and reasonable access to private land. The Act does not appear to violate any specific 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).