The U.S. House Natural Resources Committee recently approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) that would designate a segment of the Little Manatee River in Florida as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, the goal of which is to conserve free-flowing rivers across the United States.
“Protecting Florida’s beautiful lands and pristine waterways will remain one of my top priorities,” Rep. Buchanan said. “Designating the Little Manatee River as ‘scenic’ will ensure that it is kept in its current, pristine condition for future generations to enjoy.”
The Little Manatee Wild and Scenic River Act, H.R. 4358, which Rep. Buchanan introduced in July 2021 with lead cosponsor U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL), would formally designate the approximately 51-mile-long segment of the river, beginning at its source in southeastern Hillsborough County, Fla., flowing downstream to the point at which the river enters Tampa Bay, as a scenic river, according to information provided by Rep. Buchanan’s staff.
During its recent markup session on Jan. 19, the House Natural Resources Committee amended H.R. 4358 to authorize a formal National Park Service study of the river before an official designation can occur, the information says, noting that the designation would protect the river from development and ensure it remains available for recreational activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing.
Once formally added to the National Park Service’s Wild and Scenic River System, the National Park Service would collaborate with local government officials in Florida to develop a management plan for the Little Manatee River that must include how the existing natural environment will be preserved, according to Rep. Buchanan’s staff.
Manatee County (Fla.) Commissioner At large Carol Whitmore and Hillsborough County (Fla.) Commissioner Stacy White applauded the advancement of the bill to the full House for consideration.