Sponsors
The bill aims to protect the Deerfield River and potentially boost local recreation and tourism, but does so by triggering federal studies, potential land- and water-use restrictions, and added federal oversight and costs for taxpayers and local stakeholders.
Residents and local communities along the Deerfield River will gain potential long-term protection for the river and its tributaries, preserving scenic and recreational values.
Communities and small businesses along the river could see increased recreation and tourism opportunities if designated, boosting local economies.
State and local governments will receive a federally required study and report within three years, providing a clear timeline and congressional oversight for decision-making.
Property owners and existing operations along the river could face new restrictions on land and water uses if designation occurs, limiting development or certain river uses.
The designation process and follow-up actions could impose increased federal oversight and procedural burdens on state and local land- and water-use decisions.
Preparing the required study and any subsequent management actions will use federal funds, increasing government spending borne by taxpayers.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Adds the Deerfield River system to the list of rivers to be studied for possible Wild and Scenic designation and directs the Interior Secretary to report within three years after funds are available.
Introduced March 27, 2025 by James P. McGovern · Last progress March 27, 2025
Adds the Deerfield River (Massachusetts and Vermont), including its North, South, East, and West Branches and specified major tributaries, to the list of rivers to be studied for possible inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to complete the study and send a report to the relevant congressional committees within three years after funds are made available to carry out the study. The change does not itself designate the river as Wild and Scenic or provide funding; it only requires a formal federal study and reporting timeline (contingent on funding availability). Short-term effects are limited to the study process; potential long-term effects could include federal protection measures if the river is later designated.