Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act

# Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act (HR 6777) **What the Bill Does** This bill would designate approximately 417,000 acres of federal land in Oregon's Owyhee region as protected wilderness area. If passed, the land would receive special conservation status that generally prohibits commercial development, mining, and logging, while allowing recreational activities like hiking and hunting. The bill also addresses water rights and grazing issues in the region. **Who It Affects** The legislation would impact ranchers, outdoor enthusiasts, local communities in Malheur County, Oregon, and the federal government. Ranchers currently using the land would face restrictions on grazing practices, while conservation advocates and recreationalists would gain protected access to the landscape.

Local counties could be affected by changes to federal land management and any shifts in economic activity. **Current Status** As of now, HR 6777 is in committee and has not been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Cliff Bentz (R-OR), suggesting it has bipartisan considerations despite being a Republican-sponsored measure, as wilderness designations often do. The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process.