We know the people that live along these 16 waterways love their river and have questions. Remember, the Forest Service has treated these rivers as eligible for Wild and Scenic River designation for over 30 years. There has been no impact on your private lands. The Forest Service simply protects those reasons you love your river.
Private Landowners
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No. The Act carries no authority to control the use of privately owned land, even if private lands are included within the boundaries of the protected river. Landowners will be allowed to use their land just as they had before designation and will have the opportunity to participate in creating a river use plan. Just like now, no one can enter your land from the waterway without your permission.
-
No. The federal government has no rights to your property and cannot take your land. You will continue to own and use your land as before. Remember, if you own land along one of these waterways, it has been treated as a 'wild and scenic' river for 30 years without any impact on your rights as a private landowner. That will not change.
-
No. Most current land uses, both public and private, alongside the river will continue after designation, including agricultural activities such as farming and grazing. The goal of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act is not to restore a waterway to untouched conditions, but to "protect and enhance" the existing values and uses of the river and surrounding lands.
