Sponsors (3)
The bill directs a federal study that could lead to Wild and Scenic River protections for the Mullica River—benefiting conservation, recreation, and local planning—but may impose development limits for nearby landowners and requires federal resources to complete the study.
Residents, visitors, and local communities in the Mullica River watershed could gain long-term protections for scenic, recreational, and ecological values if the rivers are added to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System — the bill initiates the process that could secure those protections.
Local planners, stakeholders, and the public will receive a federally funded study and report within 3 years, providing analysis and data to inform conservation, land-use, and development decisions.
Property owners and local tax bases near the rivers could face new development or land-use restrictions if designation follows the study, potentially reducing property values and municipal revenues.
Preparing and conducting the required federal study will consume agency staff time and federal funds, representing an opportunity cost and a modest burden on taxpayers.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Directs an Interior Department study of the Mullica River watershed for possible Wild and Scenic River designation and requires a report within three years of available funding.
Official title: To amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate the Mullica River watershed in New Jersey for study for potential designation as a wild and scenic river, and for other purposes.
Introduced May 20, 2026 by Herbert C. Conaway · Last progress May 20, 2026
Directs the Department of the Interior to study the Mullica River watershed in New Jersey for potential addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. It lists the Mullica River, Wading River, Batsto River, and specified tributary segments and requires the Secretary to finish the study and report to relevant congressional committees within three years after funding is available.