Mullica River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2026

119th Congress Introduced by Jeff Van Drew and 1 co-sponsor

The bill authorizes a formal study of the Mullica River watershed to assess eligibility for potential Wild and Scenic River designation, not immediate protections.

Introduced in House

Summary of HR 8924 (119th Congress)

Purpose and intent

HR 8924 would amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to study the Mullica River watershed in New Jersey for potential designation as a wild and scenic river.

The bill focuses on initiating an official study to determine whether portions of the Mullica River watershed meet the criteria for wild and scenic designation and, if warranted, to proceed with the designation process under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Key provisions and changes

Designation for study: The Mullica River watershed in New Jersey is explicitly identified as a candidate area to be studied under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to assess eligibility for a potential future designation.

Study mandate: Although the bill text provided does not specify exact study parameters, it typically would authorize the relevant federal agencies (under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act framework) to examine natural, cultural, historic, and recreational values; assess environmental protections; and evaluate scenic, recreational, and watershed health aspects.

Potential designation pathway: A finding that the Mullica River watershed qualifies could lead to a recommended designation process, which would involve federal agencies (such as the National Park Service, in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or other appropriate entities) and public involvement, consistent with the standards of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

No immediate land or water restrictions: As a designation study bill, it does not by itself impose restrictions or protections; rather, it enables study and consideration of possible future designation.

Affected parties and areas

Geographic focus: Mullica River watershed, located in New Jersey.

Stakeholders likely to be affected include local and state governments, watershed residents and users (recreational boaters, anglers, hikers), conservation groups, and federal land/water management agencies responsible for implementing the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

The bill would engage federal agencies in an ongoing analysis and potential public process related to river designation.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: The bill was introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources on May 20, 2026.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsored by Representative Jeff Van Drew.

Next steps: If the committee reports the bill favorably, it would proceed through the legislative process (potential consideration by the full House, then Senate passage or conference). As a study-focused bill, timelines would revolve around the completion of the designated study and any subsequent designation decisions under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Additional notes

The bill’s primary effect at this stage is to authorize and direct a formal study of the Mullica River watershed for eligibility for wild and scenic designation. It does not itself grant new protections or designate land or waterways at this time.

Specific study scope, funding, methodology, and timelines would typically be defined in accompanying committee reports or implementing regulations once a study is authorized.