H.R. 1612: Flatside Wilderness Additions Act

This bill, titled the Flatside Wilderness Additions Act, aims to expand the existing Flatside Wilderness area located within the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. It proposes the addition of approximately 2,212 acres of land to the existing Flatside Wilderness, which was established by the Arkansas Wilderness Act of 1984.

Key Provisions

• Expansion of Wilderness Area: The bill amends the existing Arkansas Wilderness Act to include the specified additional land, thus officially designating it as part of the Flatside Wilderness. The specific map detailing the areas proposed for this addition is dated November 12, 2024.
• Authority of the Secretary of Agriculture: The bill clarifies that it does not limit the existing authorities of the Secretary of Agriculture concerning fire management, insect and disease control in wilderness areas, allowing for necessary actions to protect and maintain these lands according to established regulations.
• New Designation: With this bill, the expanded wilderness area will be referred to as the "Flatside-Bethune Wilderness," thus updating all references to the region in official documents and maps to reflect this change.

Impact and Purpose

The purpose of this legislation is to protect the natural environment of the specified area, preserving it for ecological health, recreational opportunities, and conservation. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining wilderness character and allows for the continued management of potential threats to the area, such as wildfires or pest infestations, without compromising its designated wilderness status.

Relevant Companies

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