S.1791 - Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act of 2025 designates specific areas in Gunnison County, Colorado, for various protections and management strategies. These include special management areas, wildlife conservation areas, protection areas, recreation management areas, and a scientific research and education area. The Act also designates new wilderness areas and modifies the boundaries of existing ones.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to conserve and protect natural resources, enhance recreational opportunities, and support scientific research. It also addresses specific issues such as oil and gas leasing, motorized boat use, and land to be held in trust for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of natural resources and biodiversity in Gunnison County.
- Increased recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- Support for scientific research and education in the Rocky Mountain region.
- Recognition and protection of tribal rights and interests.
- Improved watershed management and climate resilience.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential restrictions on certain economic activities, such as mineral extraction and timber harvesting.
- Possible limitations on motorized vehicle access in some areas.
- Increased regulatory burden for land management agencies.
- Potential conflicts between different user groups (e.g., recreationists, ranchers, conservationists).
- The withdrawal of land from mineral leasing could impact energy development.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with Congress's power to manage federal lands under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to "dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States." The Act also respects tribal rights, potentially implicating the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) through its relationship with Native American tribes.
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).