Establishing Chesapeake National Recreation Area: Conservation, Public Access, and Property Rights
This Act establishes the Chesapeake National Recreation Area (CNRA) in Maryland and Virginia as a unit of the National Park System, aiming to preserve natural and historical resources and enhance public recreational access to the Bay. Crucially, the law prohibits the use of eminent domain (condemnation) to acquire land for the CNRA, ensuring protection for private property owners. Existing fishing and state wildlife management regulations remain unaffected.
Key points
Creates a new National Recreation Area, expanding public opportunities for recreation and access to the natural and cultural heritage of the Chesapeake Bay.
Protects private property owners by explicitly forbidding the federal government from acquiring land for the area through condemnation.
An Advisory Commission, including local stakeholders like fishermen, farmers, and youth representatives, will be established to guide the park's management plan.
Expired
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