Mullica River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2026
Key claim: S4595 (Mullica River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2026) would authorize a federal study of the Mullica River Watershed for potential Wild and Scenic River designation and has reached Energy and Natural Resources National Parks subcommittee hearings.
Abstract
(S4595 · 119th Congress) Latest action (2026-07-21): Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held.
Why this matters
A Wild and Scenic River study is a prerequisite step that can lead to federal protective designation, constraining future development, damming, and permitting along the corridor while directing resources to conservation planning. For the Mullica River Watershed in New Jersey’s Pinelands, the study would evaluate ecological, recreational, and cultural values without immediately imposing land-use restrictions, but the outcome could shape long-term public lands and water-quality management in the region.