Shawnee National Forest: New Wilderness and Special Management Areas Established.
This Act permanently protects over 13,000 acres within the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois by designating the Camp Hutchins Wilderness and three Special Management Areas. These areas are shielded from mining, drilling, and commercial logging, ensuring the preservation of ecological resources for public enjoyment and scientific study. Citizens benefit from enhanced conservation efforts but face strict limitations on motorized vehicle use.
Key points
Designates 750 acres as Camp Hutchins Wilderness, prohibiting vehicular traffic on a key forest road, which will be maintained as a hiking trail.
Establishes three Special Management Areas (over 12,700 acres total) where commercial timber harvesting, trapping, and mineral extraction are banned.
Motorized vehicle use is generally prohibited in the new zones, except for specific administrative, emergency, or access needs (like trailheads or cemeteries).
Status:
Placed on Calendar
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