Upper Raritan River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025
Summary
The Upper Raritan River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025 directs the Secretary of the Interior to study the Upper Raritan River Watershed in New Jersey for potential inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The study will encompass segments of the North Branch Raritan River, the South Branch Raritan River, the Black or Lamington River, and their tributaries. A report on the study's findings must be submitted to the relevant committees in the Senate and House of Representatives within three years of funding availability.
Expected Effects
This act will initiate a study to determine if the Upper Raritan River Watershed qualifies for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. If designated, the area could benefit from increased environmental protection and potential tourism. The study itself will require resources and may lead to future regulations affecting land use within the watershed.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased environmental protection of the Upper Raritan River Watershed.
- Possible boost to local tourism and recreation economies.
- Enhanced conservation of natural resources and biodiversity.
- Increased public awareness of the watershed's ecological significance.
- Federal resources allocated for the study and potential future management.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased land use regulations and restrictions on private property within the watershed.
- The study itself will require allocation of federal funds.
- Possible delays in development projects due to the study and potential designation process.
- Potential conflicts between recreational use and conservation efforts.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term impacts of designation on local communities.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the US Constitution through Congress's power to regulate navigable waters and manage federal lands, as implied by Article I, Section 8. The study and potential designation of the Upper Raritan River Watershed fall under the umbrella of environmental conservation, which can be argued as promoting the general welfare. No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent.
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).