The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act directs land management agencies such
as the San Juan National Forest to evaluate rivers and streams
for their potential eligibility for protection as wild, scenic,
or recreational rivers. If found eligible, the San Juan NF may
further propose to Congress that the rivers be designated as
wild and scenic under the law. Only Congress can ultimately create
a  wild and scenic river.
If designated wild and scenic, no dams can
be constructed on that river segment, and enough water must be
left in the river to protect its “outstandingly remarkable values.” The
river corridor is also withdrawn from mineral development. |
