S. 1187: Deerfield River Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025 (119th Congress) Bill Summary

The Deerfield River Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025 proposes to enhance the protection of the Deerfield River and its tributaries located in Massachusetts and Vermont. Specifically, the bill aims to initiate a study that would evaluate the potential addition of the Deerfield River to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

Key Provisions

The bill seeks to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to include the Deerfield River, encompassing all its branches and major tributaries.
It explicitly identifies the entire river system, which includes:
- North, South, East, and West Branches of the Deerfield River.
- Major tributaries such as the Green River, North River, South River, Clesson Brook, Chickley River, Cold River, Gulf Brook, Bog Brook, and Dunbar Brook.
The Secretary of the Interior is tasked with completing a study to assess the river’s suitability for this designation.
This study must be conducted within three years once the necessary funds are made available.
A report detailing the findings of the study is to be submitted to the relevant congressional committees.

Purpose of the Study

The study aims to determine how the Deerfield River may meet the criteria for protection under the Wild and Scenic Rivers System, which is designed to preserve rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. The study will likely evaluate various factors, such as the river's environmental condition, the significance of its natural resources, recreational opportunities, and the impact of potential development in the area.

Implications of the Designation

If the Deerfield River is found suitable and is subsequently designated as a Wild and Scenic River, it would receive certain protective measures aimed at conserving its natural and recreational values. This status could affect land use planning, zoning regulations, and development projects within the river corridor and its watershed, potentially limiting alterations that may impact the river’s integrity.