Greater Yellowstone Rivers Protection: Recreation and Tourism Enhancement
This act aims to protect specific segments of the Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone Rivers in Montana, including their tributaries, as part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This ensures that residents and tourists can continue to enjoy clean water, abundant fish and wildlife, and recreational opportunities like fishing, paddling, and hiking. The act also guarantees that existing water rights and hydropower operations will not be affected, while respecting public access and private property rights.
Key points
Designates key river segments in Montana for protection, ensuring their cleanliness and accessibility for future generations.
Preserves popular recreational activities like fishing, paddling, and hiking, which support the local economy.
Guarantees that existing water rights and the operation of important hydropower facilities, such as the Hebgen and Madison Dams, remain unaffected.
Ensures that land acquisition for protection requires owner consent, and allows for maintenance of existing infrastructure like roads and bridges.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_4870
Sponsor: Rep. Zinke, Ryan K. [R-MT-1]
Process start date: 2025-08-01