Wild and Scenic Rivers
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 The river corridor is also withdrawn from mineral development.