S. 2637: Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act of 2025, aims to improve access to and information about Federal waterways and recreational areas managed by various federal agencies. Here is a summary of its main provisions:

Purpose

The primary objective is to standardize, consolidate, and publish data related to outdoor recreation and access to Federal waterways. This includes addressing fishing restrictions and making this information easily accessible to the public.

Key Definitions

• Federal Fishing Restriction: Areas where certain fishing activities are restricted or prohibited by federal agencies.
• Federal Land or Water Management Agency: Agencies such as the Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Forest Service.
• Federal Waterway: Waters managed by federal agencies.
• Secretaries: Refers to the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior responsible for overseeing these activities.

Data Standardization and Publication

• Within 30 months after the bill's enactment, federal agencies must establish standards for collecting and sharing geospatial data on public outdoor access to Federal waterways.
• Agencies are required to digitize and publicly share relevant information about Federal waterway restrictions and access points within five years. This data should include:
  • Status of openings and closures of waterways.
  • Seasonal closures and inspection requirements.
  • Restrictions on motorized craft and vessel types.
  • Areas with specific navigation rules and restrictions.
  • Accessibility information for recreational activities.

Public Participation

The bill mandates the establishment of a process for public comments and questions regarding the shared data, ensuring transparency and user engagement.

Cooperation and Coordination

• The agencies may collaborate with non-federal partners, including state and tribal agencies, technology and geospatial data companies to effectively implement the bill.
• There is also a provision for working with the U.S. Geological Survey to support data collection and publication efforts.

Updates and Reporting

• Agencies are required to update the published data at least twice a year and in real-time for critical updates related to fishing restrictions.
• Annual reports on the progress of the implementation will be submitted to relevant congressional committees for oversight.

Exclusions

The bill specifies that it does not apply to irrigation canals and flowage easements, and does not alter definitions or authority regarding navigable waters or fishing regulations.

Relevant Companies

None found