H.R.1612 - Flatside Wilderness Additions Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1612, the Flatside Wilderness Additions Act, aims to expand the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness in the Ouachita National Forest by approximately 2,212 acres. The bill amends the Arkansas Wilderness Act of 1984 to include this additional land. It also clarifies that the Secretary of Agriculture's authority regarding fire, insects, and diseases within the wilderness area remains unchanged.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be the formal designation of the additional acreage as part of the Flatside-Bethune Wilderness. This designation provides increased protection for the area's natural resources. It may also affect recreational activities and land management practices within the expanded wilderness area.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of biodiversity and natural habitats within the Ouachita National Forest.
- Increased opportunities for wilderness recreation, such as hiking and camping.
- Preservation of the area's natural beauty and ecological integrity for future generations.
- Potential for improved water quality due to reduced development and resource extraction.
- Supports the local economy through increased tourism related to outdoor recreation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential restrictions on resource extraction, such as logging or mining, within the designated wilderness area.
- Possible limitations on motorized vehicle access and other forms of recreation.
- Increased management costs associated with maintaining the expanded wilderness area.
- Potential conflicts with existing land use rights or private property interests.
- Possible delays in addressing forest health issues like wildfires, insect infestations, or diseases due to wilderness restrictions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with Congress's power to manage federal lands under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the authority to "dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States." The designation of wilderness areas falls under this authority. There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or other constitutional provisions.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).