Upper Raritan River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025

# Upper Raritan River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would authorize the U.S. Department of Interior to conduct a study of the Upper Raritan River watershed in New Jersey to determine whether it qualifies for designation as a "Wild and Scenic River." A Wild and Scenic River designation is a federal protection status that recognizes rivers with outstanding scenic, recreational, geological, or historical value. The study would assess the river's characteristics and potential eligibility for this protected status. **Who It Affects** The bill directly affects communities and landowners in New Jersey's Upper Raritan River watershed region.

A Wild and Scenic designation could impact how the river area is managed and developed in the future, potentially affecting property owners, local governments, recreational users, and environmental groups interested in river conservation. **Current Status** As of now, HR 5852 is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Representative Thomas Kean (Republican, New Jersey). No further action has been taken at this time.