HouseH.R. 10529119th Congress
A River Runs Through It Act
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[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 10529 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 10529
To provide restoration, economic development, recreation, and
conservation in the State of Montana.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
September 21, 2026
Mr. Zinke introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Natural Resources
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To provide restoration, economic development, recreation, and
conservation in the State of Montana.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``A River Runs
Through It Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
TITLE I--RESTORATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Sec. 101. Designation of restoration areas.
Sec. 102. Management of restoration areas.
Sec. 103. Designation of backcountry areas.
Sec. 104. Management of backcountry areas.
TITLE II--RECREATION
Sec. 201. Recreation areas.
Sec. 202. Winter recreation areas.
Sec. 203. Over-snow vehicle trail corridor.
Sec. 204. Establishment of new trails.
Sec. 205. Shooting ranges.
TITLE III--CONSERVATION
Sec. 301. Designation of wilderness.
Sec. 302. Administration of wilderness.
Sec. 303. Designation of conservation management areas.
TITLE IV--MISCELLANEOUS
Sec. 401. Maps and legal descriptions.
Sec. 402. Protection of private property rights.
Sec. 403. Fish and wildlife.
Sec. 404. Tribal management and treaty rights.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Collaboratively developed.--The term ``collaboratively
developed'' means a proposal that is developed and implemented
through a collaborative process that--
(A) includes multiple interested persons
representing diverse interests; and
(B) is transparent and nonexclusive.
(2) Conservation management area.--The term ``conservation
management area'' means a conservation management area
designated by section 303(a)(1).
(3) Map.--The term ``Map'' means the map entitled ``A River
Runs Through It Act'' and dated September 2026.
(4) Recreation area.--The term ``recreation area'' means a
recreation area designated by section 201(a).
(5) Restoration.--The term ``restoration'' has the meaning
given the term in section 219.19 of title 36, Code of Federal
Regulations (as in effect on the date of the enactment of this
Act).
(6) Restoration area.--The term ``restoration area'' means
a restoration area designated by section 101.
(7) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
(8) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of Montana.
(9) Wilderness area.--The term ``wilderness area'' means a
wilderness area or wilderness addition designated by section
301.
(10) Winter recreation area.--The term ``winter recreation
area'' means a winter recreation area designated by section
202(a).
TITLE I--RESTORATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
SEC. 101. DESIGNATION OF RESTORATION AREAS.
Subject to valid existing rights, there are designated as
restoration areas in the State the following:
(1) Ogden mountain restoration area.--Certain Federal land
in the State, comprising approximately 42,764 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the
``Ogden Mountain Restoration Area''.
(2) Lincoln gulch restoration area.--Certain Federal land
in the State, comprising approximately 26,495 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the
``Lincoln Gulch Restoration Area''.
(3) Marsh creek restoration area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 32,256 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Marsh Creek
Restoration Area''.
(4) Coopers lake restoration area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 20,481 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Coopers Lake
Restoration Area''.
(5) Seeley lake restoration area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 37,541 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Seeley Lake
Restoration Area''.
(6) Clearwater restoration area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 24,096 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Clearwater
Restoration Area''.
SEC. 102. MANAGEMENT OF RESTORATION AREAS.
(a) Purposes.--The purposes of the restoration areas are--
(1) to establish, restore, and maintain fire-resilient
forest structures;
(2) to enhance the restoration of Federal land;
(3) to reduce the threat of uncharacteristic wildfire;
(4) to restore historical forest patterns and fire regimes;
(5) to protect and restore aquatic habitat and watershed
function;
(6) to protect and restore wildlife habitat, migration
corridors, and connectivity pathways, including for species
listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species
Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), species of conservation concern
(as defined in section 219.9(c) of title 36, Code of Federal
Regulations), and sensitive species (as defined in Forest
Service Manual 2600-Wildlife, Fish, And Sensitive Plant Habitat
Management, Chapter 2670-Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive
Plants and Animals);
(7) to facilitate research on impacts of forest restoration
activities;
(8) to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic, natural,
cultural, and wildlife values;
(9) to conserve, protect, and enhance the scenic, fish and
wildlife, recreational and cultural resources, and other
natural resource values; and
(10) to maintain and improve ecological functions that
provide ecosystem services, including water, clean air, and
carbon sequestration.
(b) Management.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the restoration
areas--
(A) in a manner consistent with the purposes
described in subsection (a); and
(B) in accordance with--
(i) the laws (including regulations) and
rules applicable to the National Forest System;
(ii) this Act; and
(iii) any other applicable law (including
regulations).
(2) Priority.--Consistent with applicable law and this
section, the Secretary shall ensure the implementation of
restoration activities are a management priority in the
restoration areas.
(3) Wildland fire.--
(A) In general.--Nothing in this section prohibits
the Secretary, in cooperation with other Federal,
State, and local agencies, as appropriate, from
conducting preventative or responsive wildland fire
operations in the restoration areas, consistent with
the purposes described in subsection (a).
(B) Prescribed fire.--To the extent practicable,
the Secretary shall use prescribed burning to achieve
the purposes described in subsection (a).
(4) Vegetation management.--
(A) In general.--Nothing in this section prohibits
the Secretary from conducting a vegetation management
project within a restoration area to enhance the
restoration of land in accordance with this paragraph--
(i) to ensure forest growth, type,
structure, composition, and function are
representative of historical variability,
disturbance regimes, and projected future
climate variability;
(ii) to maintain or restore forest
ecosystem composition, patterns, and structure;
(iii) to improve habitat of threatened or
endangered species, species of conservation
concern, or sensitive species;
(iv) to protect and improve water quality;
(v) to improve forest health and reduce the
likelihood of insect or disease vectors
significantly altering forest composition; and
(vi) to protect key recreation
infrastructure and resources, including
structures, viewsheds, and campgrounds.
(B) Requirement.--A vegetation management project
within a restoration area shall be carried out--
(i) subject to--
(I) such policies and practices as
the Secretary determines appropriate;
and
(II) applicable law (including
regulations); and
(ii) in a manner consistent with--
(I) one or more of the purposes
described in subsection (a); and
(II) any applicable recovery plan
or conservation plan under the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16
U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
(5) Roads.--
(A) Permanent roads.--The construction of permanent
roads within a restoration area shall be allowed only
in areas in which permanent road construction is
permitted as of the date of enactment of this Act.
(B) Temporary roads.--
(i) Construction.--The construction of
temporary roads within a restoration area shall
be allowed only as necessary to implement a
vegetation management project carried out in
accordance with this section.
(ii) Closure.--
(I) In general.--Temporary roads
constructed within a restoration area
after the date of enactment of this Act
shall not be open for public use.
(II) Enforcement.--The Secretary
shall ensure that temporary roads
constructed in a restoration area under
this section are closed for public use.
(iii) Removal.--Not later than 3 years
after the date on which the applicable
vegetation management project is completed, the
Secretary shall decommission any temporary road
constructed to implement the vegetation
management project under clause (i).
(C) Existing roads.--
(i) Assessment.--As part of any vegetation
management project carried out under paragraph
(4), in accordance with clause (ii), the
Secretary shall assess the effect of existing
roads (as of the date of enactment of this Act)
within the project area on aquatic ecosystems.
(ii) Contents.--The Secretary shall ensure
that an assessment carried out under clause (i)
is consistent with subpart A of part 212 of
title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (as in
effect on the date of enactment of this Act).
(iii) Decommissioning.--To the extent
practicable, within the restoration areas, the
Secretary shall decommission National Forest
System roads that the Secretary has determined
are unneeded, temporary roads no longer being
utilized for project purposes, and unauthorized
routes--
(I) subject to the availability of
appropriations; and
(II) in accordance with applicable
law.
(iv) Exception.--Nothing in this section
prevents the Secretary from rerouting,
realigning or relocating a needed permanent
road in existence as of the date of enactment
of this Act to protect natural resources within
a restoration area from degradation, reduce
sedimentation, or protect streams.
(6) Grazing.--The grazing of livestock in restoration
areas, where established before the date of enactment of this
Act, shall be permitted to continue--
(A) subject to--
(i) such reasonable regulations, policies,
and practices as the Secretary considers
necessary; and
(ii) applicable law; and
(B) in a manner consistent with the purposes
described in subsection (a).
(7) Motorized vehicles.--The use of motorized vehicles in
the restoration areas shall be permitted only on roads, trails,
and areas designated for such use.
(c) Collaboration.--In developing and implementing restoration
projects in the restoration areas, the Secretary shall consult with
collaborative groups with an interest in the restoration areas.
(d) Conforming Map Correction.--Not later than 18 months after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in accordance with
section 294.11 of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor
regulations), and other applicable law (including regulations), shall
modify the maps of inventoried roadless areas to exclude the portions
of inventoried roadless areas within the restoration areas.
SEC. 103. DESIGNATION OF BACKCOUNTRY AREAS.
(a) Secretary Defined.--In sections 103 and 104, the term
``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the Interior.
(b) Establishment of Backcountry Areas.--Subject to valid existing
rights, the following areas in the State are designated as backcountry
areas:
(1) Hoodoo mountain backcountry area.--Certain Federal land
managed by the Bureau of Land Management, comprising
approximately 17,083 acres, as generally depicted on the Map,
which shall be known as the ``Hoodoo Mountain Backcountry
Area''.
(2) Wales creek backcountry area.--Certain Federal land
managed by the Bureau of Land Management, comprising
approximately 13,667 acres, as generally depicted on the Map,
which shall be known as the ``Wales Creek Backcountry Area''.
SEC. 104. MANAGEMENT OF BACKCOUNTRY AREAS.
(a) Purposes.--The purposes of the backcountry areas are--
(1) to protect and restore wildlife habitat, migration
corridors, and connectivity pathways, including for species
listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species
Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.);
(2) to establish, restore, and maintain fire-resilient
forest structures that reduce the threat of uncharacteristic
wildfire and restore historic forest patterns and fire regimes;
(3) to enhance the restoration of Federal land;
(4) to provide for wildlife dependent recreations
opportunities, including but not limited to hunting, fishing,
wildlife viewing, and photography, and quiet recreation;
(5) to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic, natural,
cultural, and wildlife values;
(6) to conserve, protect, and enhance the scenic, fish and
wildlife, recreational and cultural resources, and other
natural resource values; and
(7) to maintain and improve ecological functions that
provide ecosystem services, including water, clean air, and
carbon sequestration.
(b) Management.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the backcountry
areas--
(A) in a manner consistent with the purposes
described in subsection (a); and
(B) in accordance with--
(i) the 2021 Missoula Field Office Resource
Management Plan (as in effect as of the date of
enactment);
(ii) the Federal Land Policy and Management
Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.);
(iii) this Act; and
(iv) any other applicable law (including
regulations).
(2) Priority.--Consistent with applicable law and this
section, the Secretary shall ensure the implementation of
restoration activities are a management priority in the
backcountry areas.
(c) Withdrawal.--Subject to valid existing rights, all Federal land
located within a backcountry area is withdrawn from--
(1) all forms of entry, appropriation, and disposal under
the public land laws;
(2) location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and
(3) operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials,
and geothermal leasing laws.
(d) Release of Wilderness Study Areas.--Congress finds that, for
the purposes of section 603(c) of the Federal Land Policy and
Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1782(c)), the public lands within the
Hoodoo Mountain Wilderness Study Area and Wales Creek Wilderness Study
Area in the State have been adequately studied for wilderness
designation and shall no longer be subject to section 603(c) of the
Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1782(c)).
TITLE II--RECREATION
SEC. 201. RECREATION AREAS.
(a) Designation.--Subject to valid existing rights, there are
designated as recreation areas in the State the following:
(1) Bartlett creek recreation area.--Certain Federal land
in the State, comprising approximately 6,619 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the
``Bartlett Creek Recreation Area''.
(2) Sandbar creek recreation area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 4,012 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Sandbar
Creek Recreation Area''.
(3) Lodgepole creek recreation area.--Certain Federal land
in the State, comprising approximately 24,058 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the
``Lodgepole Creek Recreation Area''.
(4) Rice ridge recreation area.--Certain Federal land in
the State, comprising approximately 10,958 acres, as generally
depicted on the Map, which shall be known as the ``Rice Ridge
Recreation Area''.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the recreation areas is to preserve
and enhance the recreational opportunities within the recreation areas
(including opportunities for mountain bike and off-highway vehicle
recreation, where appropriate), while conserving the wildlife,
cultural, and other natural resource values of the recreation areas.
(c) Management.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the recreation
areas--
(A) to conserve, protect, and enhance the scenic,
fish and wildlife, recreational and cultural resources,
and other natural resource values of the recreation
areas;
(B) in accordance with--
(i) this section; and
(ii) the laws (including regulations)
generally applicable to the National Forest
System; and
(C) in a manner consistent with--
(i) any applicable recovery plan or
conservation plan under the Endangered Species
Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.); and
(ii) the seasonal vehicle designations on
motorized vehicles contained within the United
States Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Map,
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Lincoln
Ranger District/ Upper Blackfoot Valley, dated
2019, and the United States Forest Service
Motor Vehicle Use Map, Lolo National Forest
Seeley Lake Ranger District, dated July 10,
2020, including any amendments to those
seasonal vehicle designations.
(2) Management plan.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the
date of enactment of this Act and in accordance with
subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Secretary shall develop
a comprehensive plan for the long-term management of
the recreation areas.
(B) Consultation.--In developing the management
plan required under subparagraph (A), the Secretary
shall consult with--
(i) appropriate State, Tribal, and local
governmental entities; and
(ii) members of the public.
(C) Contents.--The management plan developed under
subparagraph (A) shall--
(i) identify opportunities to establish new
motor vehicle trails in Bartlett and Sandbar
Creek Recreation Areas that--
(I) create challenging riding
opportunities for riders of varying
skill levels; and
(II) create loop trails;
(ii) identify opportunities to establish
new mountain bike trails in Lodgepole Creek and
Rice Ridge Recreation Areas;
(iii) allow the use of over-snow vehicles
in Lodgepole Creek Recreation Area--
(I) during periods of adequate snow
coverage;
(II) in accordance with--
(aa) this section; and
(bb) the laws (including
regulations) generally
applicable to the National
Forest System;
(III) according to the seasonal use
restrictions on over-snow vehicles
contained in the United States Forest
Service Seeley Lake Ranger District
Over-The-Snow Motor Vehicle Use Map,
dated December 1, 2014 (as amended);
and
(IV) subject to any terms and
conditions determined to be necessary
by the Secretary.
(iv) include measures necessary to protect
natural and cultural resources, including
wildlife and aquatic habitat; and
(v) emphasize the education of users of
recreation areas, through signage, visitor
contacts, and enforcement, of the important
values of, and regulations governing, the
recreation areas.
(3) Use of motorized vehicles.--
(A) In general.--Beginning on the date on which the
management plan developed under paragraph (2) takes
effect, except as necessary for administrative purposes
or to respond to an emergency, the use of motorized
vehicles in the recreation areas shall be permitted
only on roads and trails designated by the management
plan for motorized use.
(B) Lodgepole creek recreation area winter use.--
Except as necessary for administrative purposes or to
respond to an emergency, the use of over-snow vehicles
shall be permitted within the Lodgepole Creek
Recreation Area only in areas designated by the
management plan developed in accordance with section
201(c)(2), and in accordance with section 202(b)(2).
(4) Incorporation of acquired land and interests.--Any land
or interest in land that is located in a recreation area that
is acquired by the United States shall--
(A) become part of the recreation area; and
(B) be managed in accordance with--
(i) the Act of March 1, 1911 (commonly
known as the ``Weeks Law'') (36 Stat. 961,
chapter 186; 16 U.S.C. 552 et seq.);
(ii) the laws (including regulations)
generally applicable to the National Forest
System;
(iii) this section; and
(iv) other applicable laws (including
regulations).
(d) Withdrawal.--Subject to valid existing rights, all Federal land
located in the recreation areas is withdrawn from--
(1) all forms of entry, appropriation, and disposal under
the public land laws;
(2) location, entry, and patenting under the mining laws;
and
(3) operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials,
and geothermal leasing laws.
SEC. 202. WINTER RECREATION AREAS.
(a) Designation.--Subject to valid existing rights, there are
designated as winter recreation areas in the State the following:
(1) Copper bowls winter recreation area.--Certain Federal
land in the State, comprising approximately 5,182 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, is designated as the ``Copper
Bowls Winter Recreation Area''.
(2) North/elsina bowls winter recreation area.--Certain
Federal land in the State, comprising approximately 6,932
acres, as generally depicted on the Map, is designated as the
``North/Elsina Bowls Winter Recreation Area''.
(b) Management.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the winter
recreation area--
(A) to conserve, protect, and enhance the scenic,
fish and wildlife, recreational, and cultural
resources, and other natural resource values of the
winter recreation area;
(B) in accordance with--
(i) this section; and
(ii) the laws (including regulations)
generally applicable to the National Forest
System;
(C) in a manner consistent with any applicable
recovery plan or conservation plan under the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.); and
(D) other applicable laws (including regulations).
(2) Use of over-snow vehicles.--The use of over-snow
vehicles shall be allowed in the winter recreation areas--
(A) during periods of adequate snow coverage;
(B) in accordance with--
(i) this section; and
(ii) the laws (including regulations)
generally applicable to the National Forest
System;
(C) consistent with the seasonal use restrictions
on over-snow vehicles contained in the United States
Forest Service Lincoln Ranger District Over-The-Snow
Motor Vehicle Use Map, dated November 8, 2018 (as
amended); and the United States Forest Service Seeley
Lake Ranger District Over-The-Snow Motor Vehicle Use
Map, dated December 1, 2014;
(D) other applicable laws (including regulations);
and
(E) subject to any terms and conditions the
Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(c) Enforcement.--The Secretary shall manage motorized recreation
activities in the winter recreation area--
(1) to prohibit degradation of natural and cultural
resources in the winter recreation area; and
(2) to prevent intrusion into adjacent wilderness areas,
including Tribally managed wilderness.
SEC. 203. OVER-SNOW VEHICLE TRAIL CORRIDOR.
(a) In General.--To provide for over-snow vehicle access between
the North/Elsina winter recreation area around the eastern boundary of
the Mission Mountains Wilderness Additions designated by section 301,
not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary shall designate an over-snow vehicle connector trail corridor
as generally depicted on the map (hereafter in this section referred to
as the ``trail corridor''), which shall not exceed 200 feet in width.
(b) Management of Trail Corridor.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the trail
corridor--
(A) to conserve, protect, and enhance the scenic,
fish and wildlife, recreational and cultural resources,
and other natural resource values of the trail
corridor;
(B) to maintain their wilderness character,
notwithstanding that the lands are not designated as
wilderness;
(C) in accordance with--
(i) this section; and
(ii) the laws (including regulations)
generally applicable to the National Forest
System;
(D) in a manner consistent with any applicable
recovery plan or conservation plan under the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.);
(E) other applicable laws (including regulations);
and
(F) subject to any terms and conditions the
Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(2) Prohibition on commercial timber harvest.--Commercial
timber harvests shall be prohibited within the trail corridor.
(3) Prohibition on motorized vehicles.--Except as provided
in paragraph (4), the use of motorized vehicles within the
trail corridor is prohibited, and no new permanent or temporary
roads shall be allowed within the trail corridor.
(4) Use of over-snow vehicles.--
(A) In general.--The use of over-snow vehicles
shall be allowed in the trail corridor--
(i) only for use by over-snow vehicles with
a width of less than 60 inches;
(ii) during periods of adequate snow
coverage; and
(iii) in accordance with--
(I) this section; and
(II) subject to any terms and
conditions the Secretary determines to
be appropriate.
(B) Management.--The Secretary shall manage the use
of over-snow vehicles within the trail corridor--
(i) to prohibit degradation of natural and
cultural resources in the trail corridor; and
(ii) to prevent intrusion into adjacent
wilderness areas, including Tribally managed
wilderness.
(c) Withdrawal.--Subject to valid existing rights, all Federal land
within the trail corridor is withdrawn from--
(1) all forms of entry, appropriation, and disposal under
the public land laws;
(2) location, entry, and patenting under the mining laws;
and
(3) operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials,
and geothermal leasing laws.
SEC. 204. ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW TRAILS.
(a) Construction.--
(1) Construction authorized.--Subject to the availability
of appropriations, and in accordance with subsection (b), if
the Secretary, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service,
determines that the construction of the trails described in
paragraph (2) may be carried out in accordance with subsection
(b), the Secretary shall provide for the construction of the
trails.
(2) Trails.--The trails referred to in paragraph (1) are
the recreational trails for motorized uses and the recreational
trails for mountain bicycling and other nonmotorized uses
generally depicted on the Map.
(3) Modifications.--As the Secretary determines to be
necessary, the Secretary may modify the trails constructed
under this subsection.
(4) Use of volunteer services and contributions.--To reduce
or eliminate the need for Federal expenditures to construct a
route under this subsection, the route may be constructed
through the acceptance of volunteer services and contributions
from non-Federal sources.
(b) Applicable Law.--In carrying out this section, the Secretary
shall comply with--
(1) the laws (including regulations) generally applicable
to the National Forest System; and
(2) this Act.
(c) Savings Clause.--The Secretary shall not consider the
establishment of three new motorized connecting trails in the areas
generally depicted on the Map to impact the trail density on the
Lincoln Ranger District for purposes of an applicable biological
opinion prepared under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973
(16 U.S.C. 1536).
(d) Expanded Recreation Opportunities.--
(1) In general.--If a local collaborative group submits to
the Secretary, by not later than 5 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, a collaboratively developed proposal to
improve recreational opportunities, including motorized and
nonmotorized trails, the Secretary--
(A) shall promptly initiate a decision making
process in accordance with applicable laws (including
regulations) to consider the proposal; and
(B) subject to appropriations, and in accordance
with subsection (d), may provide for the construction
of any recreational infrastructure included in the
proposal.
(2) Deadline.--The Secretary shall complete the analysis
required by paragraph (1)(A) by not later than 3 years after
the date on which the Secretary receives the applicable
collaboratively developed proposal.
SEC. 205. SHOOTING RANGES.
Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act,
the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior,
shall assess whether the shooting ranges identified in section 123 of
the EXPLORE Act (Public Law 118-234; 16 U.S.C. 8423) include sites that
are reasonably accessible from Lincoln, Montana.
TITLE III--CONSERVATION
SEC. 301. DESIGNATION OF WILDERNESS.
In accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), the
following areas in the State are designated as wilderness areas and as
components of the National Wilderness Preservation System:
(1) Scapegoat wilderness additions.--Certain Federal land
administered by the Forest Service in the State, comprising
approximately 48,930 acres, as generally depicted on the Map,
which shall be added to and administered as part of the
Scapegoat Wilderness designated by the first section of Public
Law 92-395 (86 Stat. 578; 16 U.S.C. 1132 note).
(2) Bob marshall wilderness additions.--Certain Federal
land administered by the Forest Service in the State,
comprising approximately 49,736 acres, as generally depicted on
the Map, which shall be added to and administered as part of
the Bob Marshall Wilderness designated under section 3 of the
Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132).
(3) Mission mountains wilderness additions.--Certain
Federal land administered by the Forest Service in the State,
comprising approximately 2,878 acres, as generally depicted on
the Map, which shall be added to and administered as part of
the Mission Mountain Wilderness designated by the second
section of Public Law 93-632 (16 U.S.C. 1132).
(4) Nevada mountain wilderness.--Certain Federal land
administered by the Forest Service in the State, comprising
approximately 28,871 acres, as generally depicted on the Map,
which shall be known as the ``Nevada Mountain Wilderness''.
SEC. 302. ADMINISTRATION OF WILDERNESS.
(a) In General.--Subject to valid existing rights, the wilderness
areas shall be administered by the Secretary in accordance with the
Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), except that any reference in
that Act to the effective date of that Act shall be considered to be a
reference to the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Livestock.--The grazing of livestock and the maintenance of
existing facilities relating to grazing in the wilderness areas, if
established before the date of enactment of this Act, shall be
permitted to continue in accordance with--
(1) section 4(d)(4) of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C.
1133(d)(4)); and
(2) the guidelines set forth in the report of the Committee
on Interior and Insular Affairs of the House of Representatives
accompanying H.R. 5487 of the 96th Congress (H. Rept. 96-617).
(c) Wildfire, Insect, and Disease Management.--In accordance with
section 4(d)(1) of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1133(d)(1)), within
the wilderness areas, the Secretary may take any measures that the
Secretary determines to be necessary to control fire, insects, and
diseases, including, as the Secretary determines appropriate, the
coordination of the activities with a State or local agency.
(d) Adjacent Management.--
(1) In general.--The designation of a wilderness area shall
not create any protective perimeter or buffer zone around the
wilderness area.
(2) Non-wilderness activities.--The fact that non-
wilderness activities or uses can be seen or heard from areas
within a wilderness area shall not preclude the conduct of
those activities or uses outside the boundary of the wilderness
area.
SEC. 303. DESIGNATION OF CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT AREAS.
(a) Establishment of Conservation Management Areas.--
(1) Establishment.--Subject to valid existing rights, there
are designated as conservation management areas in the State
the following:
(A) Continental divide conservation management
area.--Certain Federal land managed by the Forest
Service in the State, comprising approximately 31,653
acres, as generally depicted on the Map, which shall be
known as the ``Continental Divide Conservation
Management Area''.
(B) Stonewall conservation management area.--
Certain Federal land managed by the Forest Service in
the State, comprising approximately 13,089 acres, as
generally depicted on the Map, which shall be known as
the ``Stonewall Conservation Management Area''.
(2) Purposes.--The purposes of the conservation management
areas are to conserve, protect, and enhance for the benefit and
enjoyment of present and future generations the recreational,
scenic, historical, cultural, fish, wildlife, roadless, and
ecological values of the conservation management areas.
(3) Management.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall manage the
conservation management areas--
(i) in a manner that conserves, protects,
and enhances the resources of the conservation
management areas; and
(ii) in accordance with--
(I) the laws (including
regulations) and rules applicable to
the National Forest System;
(II) this section; and
(III) any other applicable law
(including regulations).
(B) Uses.--
(i) In general.--The Secretary shall only
allow such uses of the conservation management
areas that the Secretary determines would
further the purposes described in paragraph
(2).
(ii) Motorized vehicles.--
(I) In general.--The use of
motorized vehicles in the conservation
management areas shall be permitted
only on roads, trails, and areas
designated for use by motorized
vehicles as of the date of enactment of
this Act.
(II) New system roads or temporary
roads.--Except as provided in subclause
(III), no new system roads or temporary
roads shall be constructed within the
conservation management areas.
(III) Exceptions.--Nothing in
subclause (I) or (II) prohibits the
Secretary from--
(aa) rerouting or closing
an existing road or trail to
protect natural resources from
degradation, as determined to
be appropriate by the
Secretary;
(bb) authorizing the use of
motorized vehicles for
administrative purposes
(including noxious weed
eradication or grazing
management); or
(cc) responding to an
emergency.
(iii) Grazing.--The Secretary shall permit
grazing within the conservation management
areas, if established on the date of enactment
of this Act--
(I) subject to--
(aa) such reasonable
regulations, policies, and
practices as the Secretary
determines appropriate; and
(bb) all applicable laws;
and
(II) in a manner consistent with--
(aa) the purposes described
in paragraph (2); and
(bb) the guidelines set
forth in the report of the
Committee on Interior and
Insular Affairs of the House of
Representatives accompanying
H.R. 5487 of the 96th Congress
(H. Rept. 96-617).
(iv) Vegetation management.--Nothing in
this section prohibits the Secretary from
conducting vegetation management projects
within the conservation management areas--
(I) subject to--
(aa) such reasonable
regulations, policies, and
practices as the Secretary
determines appropriate; and
(bb) all applicable laws
(including regulations); and
(II) in a manner consistent with
the purposes described in paragraph
(2).
(C) Adjacent management.--
(i) In general.--The designation of the
conservation management areas shall not create
a protective perimeter or buffer zone around
the conservation management areas.
(ii) Effect.--The fact that activities or
uses can be seen or heard from areas within the
conservation management areas shall not
preclude the conduct of the activities or uses
outside the boundary of the conservation
management areas.
(D) Incorporation of acquired land and interests.--
Any land or interest in land that is located in a
conservation management area that is acquired by the
United States shall--
(i) become part of the conservation
management area; and
(ii) be managed in accordance with--
(I) the Act of March 1, 1911
(commonly known as the ``Weeks Law'')
(36 Stat. 961, chapter 186; 16 U.S.C.
552 et seq.);
(II) any laws (including
regulations) applicable to the National
Forest System;
(III) this subsection; and
(IV) any other applicable law
(including regulations).
(E) Interpretation.--In consultation with Tribal
Nations, the Secretary shall incorporate into the
management of the conservation management areas--
(i) public education and interpretation
regarding the cultural significance, Native
American history, and other historical uses of
the conservation management areas; and
(ii) Native American place names within the
conservation management areas.
(4) Withdrawal.--Subject to valid existing rights, all
Federal land located in the conservation management areas is
withdrawn from--
(A) all forms of entry, appropriation, and disposal
under the public land laws;
(B) location, entry, and patenting under the mining
laws; and
(C) operation of the mineral leasing, mineral
materials, and geothermal leasing laws.
(b) Rocky Mountain Front Conservation Management Area Addition.--
Section 3065 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. ``Buck'' McKeon National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (16 U.S.C. 539r) is
amended in subsection (b)(1), by striking subparagraph (B) and
inserting the following:
``(B) Area included.--The Conservation Management
Area shall consist of--
``(i) approximately 195,073 acres of
Federal land managed by the Forest Service and
13,087 acres of Federal land managed by the
Bureau of Land Management in the State, as
generally depicted on the map; and
``(ii) approximately 18,126 acres of
Federal land managed by the Forest Service in
the State, as generally depicted on the map
entitled `A River Runs Through It Act' and
dated Sept 2026.''.
TITLE IV--MISCELLANEOUS
SEC. 401. MAPS AND LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS.
(a) In General.--As soon as practicable after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary shall prepare maps and legal descriptions
of--
(1) the restoration areas;
(2) the recreation areas;
(3) the winter recreation areas;
(4) any Federal land used for a shooting range on which a
shooting range is established under section 205;
(5) the conservation management areas;
(6) the addition to the Rocky Mountain Front Conservation
Management Area designated by clause (ii) of section
3065(b)(1)(B) of the Carl Levin and Howard P. ``Buck'' McKeon
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (16
U.S.C. 539r(b)(1)(B)) (as added by section 303(b)(1)); and
(7) the wilderness areas.
(b) Force of Law.--The maps and legal descriptions prepared under
subsection (a) shall have the same force and effect as if included in
this section, except that the Secretary may correct typographical
errors in the maps and legal descriptions.
(c) Public Availability.--The maps and legal descriptions prepared
under subsection (a) shall be on file and available for public
inspection in the appropriate offices of the Forest Service and Bureau
of Land Management.
SEC. 402. PROTECTION OF PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS.
Nothing in this Act--
(1) affects the ownership, management, or other rights
relating to any non-Federal land (including any interest in any
non-Federal land);
(2) requires any private property owner to allow public
access (including Federal, State, or local government access)
to private property; or
(3) modifies any provision of Federal, State, or local law
with respect to public access to or use of private land.
SEC. 403. FISH AND WILDLIFE.
Nothing in this Act affects the jurisdiction or responsibilities of
the State with respect to fish and wildlife.
SEC. 404. TRIBAL MANAGEMENT AND TREATY RIGHTS.
Nothing in this Act alters, modifies, enlarges, diminishes, or
abrogates the treaty rights of any Indian Tribe, including off-
reservation reserved rights, or affects tribally managed lands.
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