Smith River National Recreation Area Expansion Act

This bill expands the Smith River National Recreation Area into parts of Oregon and adds stronger protections for clean water, fish, and outdoor recreation. It designates many miles of the North Fork Smith River and its creeks in Oregon as “wild” under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and updates the broader Smith River listing to cover areas in both California and Oregon, including parts of Rowdy Creek . It also sets streamside protection zones along the newly protected segments to help keep rivers healthy. Firefighting and forest health work can continue, and existing federal “roadless” and Northwest Forest Plan rules still apply in Oregon portions. Tribal rights are protected, and the Forest Service is encouraged to work with Tribes on access for cultural uses and public education.

The bill requires a scientific study within five years to map and assess streams, wetlands, plants (including Port-Orford-cedar), wildlife, and other natural features in the addition area, followed by updates to management plans to protect those values. It also lets the Forest Service purchase land to protect the area—including a roughly 555‑acre Cedar Creek parcel if Oregon’s State Land Board approves and funding is available—and keeps the Kalmiopsis Wilderness managed under the Wilderness Act .

• Who is affected: People and Tribes near the Smith River in southwest Oregon and northwest California; visitors who fish, hike, and boat; and forest and fire managers.
• What changes: The recreation area grows into Oregon; more river miles get “wild” protections; streamside buffers are added; firefighting and forest health work continue; existing roadless and forest plan rules stay in place; Tribal access and storytelling are supported; and targeted land purchases are allowed, including the Cedar Creek parcel .
• When: Protections begin on enactment; the study is due within five years; management plan updates follow; and the Cedar Creek purchase can proceed after state approval and if funds are available .