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Greater Yellowstone Rivers Protection: New Wild and Scenic River Designations

This Act aims to protect specific river segments within Montana's Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem by designating them as components of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This ensures that residents and visitors can continue to enjoy clean water, abundant fish and wildlife, and recreational opportunities, while respecting private property rights and existing infrastructure. These changes will provide long-term protection for these valuable natural resources for future generations.
Key points
Designation of segments of the Madison, Gallatin, Hyalite Creek, Cabin Creek, and Middle Fork of Cabin Creek in Montana as wild, scenic, or recreational rivers, providing them with a high level of protection.
Preservation of public access to the rivers, respect for private property rights, and allowance for maintenance and repair of existing infrastructure like roads and bridges.
No impact on existing water rights or the operation and future licensing of the Hebgen and Madison hydroelectric facilities, except for prohibiting their expansion into the newly protected river areas.
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Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_5102
Sponsor: Rep. Zinke, Ryan K. [R-MT-1]
Process start date: 2025-09-02