The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act prohibits a federal agency from issuing a permit, license, loan, grant, or other assistance for an activity that would adversely affect the free‐flow, water quality, or outstandingly remarkable river values of a national wild and scenic river or corridor. The river administering agency (BLM, FWS, NPS, or USFS) makes the determination about effects, and coordinates with proponents to achieve compliant projects. FERC is prohibited from licensing construction of any hydroelectric dam or other project works regulated under the Federal Power Act on designated wild and scenic rivers and congressionally authorized study areas.
Wild Scenic Rivers Act Determination Coordination
Permit/Review
Responsible Agency/Bureau
Project Type
Hydropower (all), Surface Transportation (all), Electricity Transmission (all), Water Resource Projects (all)
Activity/Trigger
Projects on or along national wild and scenic rivers or corridors, congressionally authorized study rivers, or upstream, downstream or on a tributary of such rivers.
Description
Statute/Regulations
Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, 16 U.S.C. 1271–1287: Sections 7, 10(a), and 12; 36 CFR part 297 (USFS); 43 CFR part 8350 (BLM).
Editorial Category