The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act aims to protect significant portions of the Gila River system in New Mexico by designating them as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This designation covers various segments across multiple creeks and forks, classifying them as "wild," "scenic," or "recreational" rivers based on their characteristics. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Interior or Agriculture administer these newly designated segments. A key provision of the Act is the withdrawal of all federal land within the boundaries of these designated river segments from new entry, appropriation, disposal under public land laws, and from new mining or mineral/geothermal leasing. This measure is intended to preserve the natural state and ecological integrity of these areas. The relevant Secretary is also required to prepare detailed maps, legal descriptions, and a comprehensive management plan for these protected river segments. Crucially, the bill includes several important safeguards, ensuring that the designation does not abrogate existing rights such as grazing permits, water rights, or valid existing mining claims. It explicitly states that no land or interest in land can be acquired without the consent of the owner, and it does not affect the Arizona Water Settlements Act. Furthermore, mining activities and mineral processing facilities located outside the designated boundaries are not limited by this legislation. The Act also addresses native fish habitat restoration, permitting both existing and new projects, including fish barriers, within covered segments. New projects are allowed if they enhance the recovery of threatened or endangered species, like the Gila Trout, and do not unreasonably diminish the river's free-flowing nature or outstanding values. Finally, the bill clarifies that it does not affect the jurisdiction of the State of New Mexico over State land, fish, and wildlife, nor does it alter the reserved treaty rights of any Indian Tribe. Beyond river protection, the legislation modifies federal land boundaries in New Mexico. It transfers administrative jurisdiction of approximately 440 acres from the Secretary of Agriculture (Forest Service) to the Secretary of the Interior (National Park Service). This land will be incorporated into the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, with a corresponding adjustment to the boundary of the Gila National Forest.
M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act
USA119th CongressHR-2903| House
| Updated: 4/10/2025
The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act aims to protect significant portions of the Gila River system in New Mexico by designating them as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This designation covers various segments across multiple creeks and forks, classifying them as "wild," "scenic," or "recreational" rivers based on their characteristics. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Interior or Agriculture administer these newly designated segments. A key provision of the Act is the withdrawal of all federal land within the boundaries of these designated river segments from new entry, appropriation, disposal under public land laws, and from new mining or mineral/geothermal leasing. This measure is intended to preserve the natural state and ecological integrity of these areas. The relevant Secretary is also required to prepare detailed maps, legal descriptions, and a comprehensive management plan for these protected river segments. Crucially, the bill includes several important safeguards, ensuring that the designation does not abrogate existing rights such as grazing permits, water rights, or valid existing mining claims. It explicitly states that no land or interest in land can be acquired without the consent of the owner, and it does not affect the Arizona Water Settlements Act. Furthermore, mining activities and mineral processing facilities located outside the designated boundaries are not limited by this legislation. The Act also addresses native fish habitat restoration, permitting both existing and new projects, including fish barriers, within covered segments. New projects are allowed if they enhance the recovery of threatened or endangered species, like the Gila Trout, and do not unreasonably diminish the river's free-flowing nature or outstanding values. Finally, the bill clarifies that it does not affect the jurisdiction of the State of New Mexico over State land, fish, and wildlife, nor does it alter the reserved treaty rights of any Indian Tribe. Beyond river protection, the legislation modifies federal land boundaries in New Mexico. It transfers administrative jurisdiction of approximately 440 acres from the Secretary of Agriculture (Forest Service) to the Secretary of the Interior (National Park Service). This land will be incorporated into the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, with a corresponding adjustment to the boundary of the Gila National Forest.