To direct the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain National Forest System land located in Franklin County, Mississippi, and for other purposes.
Summary
S. 2440 directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey approximately 310.7 acres of National Forest System land in Franklin County, Mississippi, to the Scenic Rivers Development Alliance. The land is intended for public recreation and fish and wildlife habitat. The conveyance is subject to specific terms and conditions, including the Alliance covering upkeep of the Okhissa Lake Dam and compliance with dam safety laws.
Expected Effects
The Scenic Rivers Development Alliance will gain ownership of the specified land for public recreational use. The federal government will relinquish control of the land, but retain mineral rights and easements for public roads and trails. The Alliance assumes responsibility for the Okhissa Lake Dam's maintenance and safety.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced public access to recreational land and improved fish and wildlife habitat.
- Potential for increased tourism and economic activity in Franklin County, Mississippi.
- The Scenic Rivers Development Alliance, as an instrumentality of the State of Mississippi, is better positioned to manage the land for local benefit.
- Funds from the land sale will be used for the acquisition of other land and interests in land for the National Forest System.
- Clarifies responsibilities for the Okhissa Lake Dam, ensuring its continued maintenance and safety.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of federal control over the land and its resources, although mineral rights are retained.
- Risk that the Alliance may not adequately maintain the Okhissa Lake Dam, although they are legally bound to do so.
- Limited direct financial benefit to the federal government, as the proceeds are earmarked for land acquisition within the National Forest System.
- Possible environmental impacts from increased recreational use, although the land is intended for such purposes.
- The conveyance could set a precedent for similar land transfers, potentially reducing the overall size of the National Forest System.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Property Clause of Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States. The bill specifies the terms and conditions of the land conveyance, ensuring that the transfer serves a public purpose and protects the interests of the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).