Benjamin Harrison National Recreation Area Established: Protecting Water and Recreation in Indiana.
This Act establishes the Benjamin Harrison National Recreation Area and Wilderness within the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana, expanding protected lands. The primary goals are to safeguard the water quality of the Monroe Reservoir (a public drinking water source) and ensure continued public access for diverse recreational activities, including maintaining existing mountain biking and equestrian trails. Local residents and experts will advise on the long-term management of the area through a new advisory committee.
Key points
Establishes a new National Recreation Area (NRA) and adds 15,300 acres to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness, increasing protected lands in Indiana.
Management prioritizes protecting the quality of the public drinking water supply provided by the Monroe Reservoir.
Preserves existing recreational uses, including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking, while explicitly protecting private property rights and utility access.
Creates an Advisory Committee, including local residents and experts, to guide the development of a comprehensive management plan within five years.
Expired
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