Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025, aims to incorporate a significant portion of the Myakka River into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Specifically, it designates approximately 34 miles of the Myakka River within Sarasota County, Florida, for protection. These segments are categorized into different classifications, including wild, scenic, and recreational rivers, reflecting their varying characteristics and management needs.

The administration of the designated Myakka River segments will be overseen by the Secretary of the Interior. This will be done in close partnership with the existing Myakka River Management Coordinating Council, leveraging their established expertise and local involvement. The bill explicitly states that the Council's existing management plan will satisfy federal requirements for a comprehensive management plan.

To ensure long-term protection, the Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with various Florida state and local entities, including the Department of Environmental Protection, Sarasota County, and the cities of North Port and Venice. These agreements clarify that federal administration will not convert the river into a National Park System unit. Crucially, federal land acquisition for the Myakka River is restricted to donation or acquisition with owner consent, with a strict prohibition against the use of condemnation. The Secretary may also provide technical assistance and funding to support the management plan's implementation.