S. 1681: Shenandoah Mountain Act

This legislation, known as the Shenandoah Mountain Act, proposes the establishment of the Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area in Virginia, specifically covering approximately 92,562 acres of land within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The act includes several key provisions aimed at protecting the area's environmental and recreational resources.

Establishment of the Scenic Area

The act designates a specific area as the Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area and mandates the protection and preservation of its scenic qualities, water resources, and natural characteristics. The purposes are set out as follows:

• Ensure the protection and preservation of scenic quality and water resources.
• Protect wildlife, fish, and plant habitats.
• Guard natural biological values, including those for specific species such as the Cow Knob salamander.
• Protect forests that may develop old-growth characteristics.
• Support recreational opportunities within the area that align with these protection goals.

Administration

The Secretary of Agriculture will oversee the administration of the National Scenic Area through the Forest Service, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The act establishes that it does not create buffer zones around the scenic area or wilderness areas, thus allowing certain activities outside its boundaries to continue, even if they are visible from inside the area.

Recreation and Trail Management

The act emphasizes the importance of recreational uses by allowing for the continuation and improvement of existing nonmotorized recreational opportunities. A plan for developing National Forest System trails is to be established within two years, focusing on sustainability and public input.

Road and Access Management

No closures of existing National Forest System roads will occur due to the establishment of the Scenic Area, and no new roads will be allowed. Parking areas and trail access can be improved or constructed as necessary, aligning with the purposes of the Scenic Area.

Wildlife and Vegetation Management

The legislation outlines measures for managing timber harvesting, allowing for limited activities under certain conditions for public safety and ecological reasons. It allows for insect and disease control measures to protect ecosystems, and provides for maintaining and creating wildlife clearings.

Water Resource Management

Water quality maintenance and enhancement are prioritized, and the legislation allows for existing infrastructure such as dams or reservoirs to be maintained and new facilities established as needed for municipal use.

Wilderness Designations

The act includes provisions for designating additional Wilderness Areas within the National Forests, including specific areas identified for protection. These designations add to the existing layers of conservation efforts aimed at preserving the area's ecological integrity.

Management Plan Development

A management plan for the National Scenic Area will be developed within two years following the establishment of trail plans, ensuring alignment with the goals of the act and informing ongoing management practices.

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