H.R. 3181: Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025

The bill titled "Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025" aims to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, which is designed to protect certain rivers in the United States that have outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational values. Specifically, this bill focuses on two water bodies in Vermont: the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream.

Key Provisions

• Designation for Study: The bill proposes to classify specific segments of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream for potential future inclusion in the national wild and scenic rivers system. The segments to be studied include:
  • Approximately 22 miles of the Nulhegan River, stretching from the headwaters near Nulhegan Pond to where it converges with the Connecticut River, along with associated tributaries.
  • About 18 miles of Paul Stream, from its headwaters on West Mountain to its confluence with the Connecticut River, also including associated tributaries.
• Study and Reporting Requirements: Within three years of securing funding, the Secretary of the Interior is required to conduct a study on the designated river segments. This involves evaluating their suitability for inclusion as protected areas and assessing their natural and recreational values. After the study, the Secretary must submit a report detailing the findings to the relevant congressional committees.

Essentially, the bill initiates a process to assess and potentially protect these two waterways in Vermont by gathering data on their conservation value, which could lead to enhanced protection and recognition within the national wild and scenic rivers system.

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