Virginia Wilderness Additions Act of 2025
Summary
The Virginia Wilderness Additions Act of 2025 designates additional land to the Rough Mountain Wilderness and the Rich Hole Wilderness within the George Washington National Forest. It adds approximately 1,000 acres to Rough Mountain and 4,600 acres as a potential wilderness area to Rich Hole. The Act outlines specific management guidelines, including allowing water quality improvement activities in the Rich Hole addition before its official wilderness designation.
Expected Effects
The Act will expand protected wilderness areas in Virginia. This expansion could lead to increased recreational opportunities and enhanced conservation of natural resources. The Rich Hole addition will be managed as a potential wilderness area for up to five years, during which time water quality improvements can be implemented.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of natural habitats and biodiversity.
- Increased opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking and camping.
- Potential improvement of water quality within the designated areas.
- Preservation of the scenic beauty of the George Washington National Forest.
- Long-term conservation of wilderness areas for future generations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential restrictions on resource extraction and development within the expanded wilderness areas.
- Possible limitations on motorized vehicle access for certain activities.
- Potential delays in wilderness designation for the Rich Hole addition due to required water quality improvements.
- Increased management costs associated with maintaining the expanded wilderness areas.
- Possible impact on local economies that rely on resource extraction.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Property Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to manage and regulate federal lands. By designating wilderness areas, Congress is exercising its authority to protect and preserve natural resources for the benefit of the public. There is no apparent conflict with any other constitutional provision.
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).