H.R. 187: Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act of 2025

This legislation, known as the Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act of 2025 (MAPWaters Act), seeks to improve the management and accessibility of public recreational activities related to Federal waterways. The main objectives of the bill are to standardize and consolidate data concerning access to these waterways, including restrictions on fishing and boating, while ensuring this information is publicly available online.

Key Provisions

• Interagency Data Standardization: Within 30 months after enactment, various federal agencies, led by the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior, must develop consistent standards for collecting and sharing geospatial data that relates to public outdoor recreational access to Federal waterways and fishing restrictions.
• Data Consolidation and Publication: By five years post-enactment, the Secretaries are required to digitize and publish online essential information concerning Federal waterways. This includes:
  • Current status of waterways, detailing which are open or closed.
  • Seasonal closures of waterways.
  • Details about restrictions on motorized use, anchoring, vessel speed, and other operational limitations.
  • Location of access points, boat ramps, and facilities related to fishing and boating.
  • Information concerning fishing restrictions, such as specific no-take zones and gear restrictions.
• Public Engagement: The Secretaries will establish a process that allows the public to submit queries or comments regarding the data published under this act.
• Regular Updates: The published data will be updated at least twice a year, with real-time updates for specific fishing restrictions as changes occur.
• Collaboration: The legislation encourages cooperation between federal and state agencies as well as private sector organizations, allowing for partnerships or agreements with third parties to assist in fulfilling the bill's objectives.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretaries must submit annual reports detailing progress on meeting the act’s requirements for a specified period after its enactment.
• Exemptions and Limitations: The act specifies that it does not alter definitions or jurisdictions regarding navigable waters, fisheries management, or existing access to waters open for outdoor recreation as of the date of enactment.

Relevant Companies

None found.