M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act

This bill protects many stretches of the Gila River system in New Mexico by adding them to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. It labels certain miles of the Gila River and several creeks as wild, scenic, or recreational, which helps keep these waters free‑flowing and their natural character intact . Within these protected river areas, new mining and new mineral or geothermal leasing are not allowed, though existing valid rights remain in place . The government must create detailed maps and a river management plan with input from Tribes, local governments, and the public . The bill also moves about 440 acres near the Gila Cliff Dwellings from the Forest Service to the National Park Service and adjusts the nearby national monument and national forest boundaries accordingly .

The bill is careful not to take away existing rights. It keeps current grazing permits, water rights, and mining or mineral leases valid, and it bars taking private land without the owner’s consent . It does not change the State’s authority over wildlife or State lands, and it respects Tribal treaty rights for hunting, fishing, gathering, and cultural or religious practices near these rivers . It also allows fish habitat projects, like barriers to help native fish such as the Gila trout, as long as they don’t harm the rivers’ free flow or special values and follow wilderness rules where applicable .

• Who is affected: People who use, live near, or manage the Gila River and nearby creeks; Tribes; ranchers with grazing permits; holders of existing water or mining rights; recreation users.
• What changes: Many river segments get long‑term protection; new mining and mineral leasing are blocked within those segments; a management plan and maps will be created; 440 acres shift to the National Park Service to adjust monument and forest boundaries .
• What stays the same: Existing rights (like water, grazing, valid mining rights), State control over wildlife and State lands, and Tribal treaty rights remain intact .