S. 432: Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2023
Introduced: December 19, 2023
Sponsor: Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
Cosponsors: Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT)
Status: Referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
Summary
The Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2023 (S. 432) would designate the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream in Vermont as a Wild and Scenic River. The bill would also establish a study to assess the feasibility of designating additional segments of these rivers as Wild and Scenic.
Background
The Nulhegan River and Paul Stream are two of the most pristine rivers in Vermont. They flow through remote and undeveloped forests, and provide habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife. The rivers are also popular destinations for recreation, including fishing, paddling, and camping.
In 2019, the Vermont Legislature passed a resolution supporting the designation of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The resolution cited the rivers’ outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values.
Provisions of the Bill
S. 432 would designate approximately 80 miles of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream as a Wild and Scenic River. The bill would establish three segments of the river:
- Wild Segment: This segment would include the most remote and undeveloped portion of the Nulhegan River. It would be managed to protect its natural character and outstanding scenic values.
- Scenic Segment: This segment would include the middle portion of the Nulhegan River. It would be managed to protect its scenic values and provide opportunities for recreation.
- Recreational Segment: This segment would include the lower portion of the Paul Stream. It would be managed to provide opportunities for recreation, including fishing, paddling, and camping.
The bill would also establish a study to assess the feasibility of designating additional segments of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream as Wild and Scenic. The study would be conducted by the National Park Service in consultation with the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Support for the Bill
S. 432 has been endorsed by a number of organizations, including the Vermont Natural Resources Council, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, and the American Rivers.
Opposition to the Bill
There is no known opposition to S. 432.
Outlook
S. 432 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. It is unclear when the committee will hold a hearing on the bill. However, the bill has strong bipartisan support, and it is likely to pass the Senate. The bill would then need to be passed by the House of Representatives and signed by the President before it could become law.
S. 432 (ES) – Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2023
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