Introduced in House — H.R. 6913

119th CONGRESS

1st Session

H. R. 6913

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

December 19, 2025

Mr. Huffman (for himself, Mr. Carbajal, Ms. Chu, and Ms. Lofgren) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

A BILL

To provide for restoration, economic development, recreation, and conservation on Federal lands in Northern California, and for other purposes.

Section 1. Short title; table of contents

(a) Short title

This Act may be cited as the Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act.

(b) Table of contents

The table of contents for this Act is as follows:

Sec. 2. Definitions

In this Act:

(1) Secretary

Unless otherwise defined in a section, the term Secretary means—

(A)

with respect to land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Agriculture; and

(B)

with respect to land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of the Interior.

(2) State

The term State means the State of California.

Title I Forest Restoration

Sec. 111. South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Ecological integrity

The term ecological integrity has the meaning given the term in section 219.19 of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act).

(2) 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 enactment of this Act).

(3) Restoration area

The term restoration area means the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area established by subsection (b).

(4) Shaded fuel break

The term shaded fuel break means a vegetation treatment that—

(A)

reduces fuel characteristics in order to affect fire behavior such that a fire can be more readily controlled; and

(B)

retains, to the maximum extent practicable—

(i)

adequate canopy cover to suppress plant regrowth in the forest understory following treatment; and

(ii)

the largest and most vigorous trees in order to provide the most shade per tree over the longest period of time.

(b) Establishment

Subject to valid existing rights, there is established the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area, comprising approximately 871,414 acres of Federal land administered by the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, as generally depicted on the map titled South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area and dated May 15, 2020.

(c) Purposes

The purposes of the restoration area are—

(1)

to establish, restore, and maintain fire-resilient mature and late successional forests, as ecologically appropriate;

(2)

to protect and restore aquatic habitat and anadromous fisheries;

(3)

to protect the quality of water;

(4)

to reduce the threat posed by wildfires to neighboring communities; and

(5)

to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic, recreational, natural, cultural, and wildlife values of the restoration area.

(d) Collaborative restoration and fire management plans

Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior shall jointly submit to Congress—

(1)

a plan to conduct restoration activities and improve the ecological integrity of the restoration area; and

(2)

an updated fire management plan for the land that includes the restoration area.

(e) Collaboration requirement

In developing the plans required under subsection (d), the Secretary shall solicit input from a collaborative group that—

(1)

includes—

(A)

appropriate representatives of State and local governments; and

(B)

multiple interested persons representing diverse interests; and

(2)

is transparent and inclusive.

(f) Fire management plan components

The updated fire management plan required under subsection (d)(2) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, include—

(1)

the use of prescribed fire; and

(2)

the use of shaded fuel breaks.

(g) Management

(1) In general

The Secretary shall conduct restoration activities in a manner consistent with the plans required under subsection (d).

(2) Conflict of laws

(A) In general

The establishment of the restoration area shall not modify the management status of any land or water that is designated as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System or the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, including land or water designated as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System or the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System by this Act (including any amendments made by this Act).

(B) Resolution of conflict

If there is a conflict between a law applicable to a component described in subparagraph (A) and this section, the more restrictive provision shall control.

(h) Withdrawal

Subject to valid existing rights, the restoration 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)

disposition under laws relating to mineral and geothermal leasing or mineral materials.

Sec. 112. California Public Land Remediation Partnership

(a) Definitions

In this section:

(1) Partnership

The term partnership means the California Public Land Remediation Partnership established by subsection (b).

(2) Priority land

The term priority land means Federal land in the State that is determined by the partnership to be a high priority for remediation.

(3) Remediation

(A) In general

The term remediation means the facilitation of the recovery of land or water that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed by illegal marijuana cultivation or another illegal activity.

(B) Inclusions

The term remediation includes—

(i)

the removal of trash, debris, or other material; and

(ii)

establishing the composition, structure, pattern, and ecological processes necessary to facilitate terrestrial or aquatic ecosystem sustainability, resilience, or health under current and future conditions.

(b) Establishment

There is established the California Public Land Remediation Partnership.

(c) Purposes

The purposes of the partnership are to support coordination of activities among Federal, State, Tribal, and local authorities and the private sector in the remediation of priority land.

(d) Membership

The members of the partnership shall include the following:

(1)

The Secretary of Agriculture (or a designee) to represent the Forest Service.

(2)

The Secretary of the Interior (or a designee) to represent—

(A)

the United States Fish and Wildlife Service;

(B)

the Bureau of Land Management; and

(C)

the National Park Service.

(3)

The Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (or a designee).

(4)

The Secretary of the State Natural Resources Agency (or a designee) to represent the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(5)

A designee of the California State Water Resources Control Board.

(6)

A designee of the California State Sheriffs’ Association.

(7)

1 member to represent federally recognized Indian Tribes, to be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture.

(8)

1 member to represent nongovernmental organizations with an interest in Federal land remediation, to be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture.

(9)

1 member to represent local governmental interests, to be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture.

(10)

A law enforcement official from each of—

(A)

the Department of the Interior; and

(B)

the Department of Agriculture.

(11)

A subject matter expert to provide expertise and advice on methods needed for remediation, to be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture.

(12)

A designee of the National Guard Counterdrug Program.

(13)

Any other members that are determined to be appropriate by the partnership.

(e) Duties

To further the purposes described in this section and subject to subsection (f), the partnership shall—

(1)

identify priority land for remediation in the State;

(2)

secure voluntary contributions of resources from Federal sources and non-Federal sources for the remediation of priority land;

(3)

support efforts by Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies and nongovernmental organizations in carrying out remediation of priority land;

(4)

support research and education on the impacts of, and solutions to, illegal marijuana cultivation and other illegal activities on priority land;

(5)

involve other Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and the public in remediation of priority land, to the maximum extent practicable; and

(6)

carry out any other administrative or advisory activities necessary to address remediation of priority land.

(f) Limitation

Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting the authorities of the Federal, State, Tribal, and local entities that comprise the partnership.

(g) Authorities

Subject to the prior approval of the Secretary of Agriculture, consistent with applicable law (including regulations), the partnership may—

(1)

provide grants to the State, political subdivisions of the State, nonprofit organizations, and other persons;

(2)

enter into cooperative agreements with, or provide technical assistance to, Federal agencies, the State, political subdivisions of the State, nonprofit organizations, and other interested persons;

(3)

identify opportunities for collaborative efforts among members of the partnership;

(4)

hire and compensate staff;

(5)

obtain funds or services from any source, including—

(A)

Federal funds (including funds and services provided under any other Federal law or program); and

(B)

non-Federal funds;

(6)

coordinate to identify sources of funding or services that may be available for remediation;

(7)

seek funds or services from any source, including—

(A)

Federal funds (including funds and services provided under any other Federal law or program); and

(B)

non-Federal funds; and

(8)

support—

(A)

activities of partners; and

(B)

any other activities that further the purposes of this section.

(h) Procedures

The partnership shall establish such internal procedures for the partnership as the partnership determines to be necessary or appropriate for the administration of the partnership.

(i) Local hiring

The partnership shall, to the maximum extent practicable and in accordance with existing law, give preference to local entities and individuals in carrying out this section.

(j) Service without compensation

A member of the partnership shall serve without pay.

(k) Duties and authorities of the secretaries

(1) In general

The Secretary of Agriculture shall convene the partnership on a regular basis to carry out this section.

(2) Technical and financial assistance

The Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior may each provide technical and financial assistance, on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis, as determined to be appropriate by the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, as applicable, to the partnership or any members of the partnership to carry out this section.

(3) Cooperative agreements

The Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior may each enter into cooperative agreements with the partnership, any member of the partnership, or other public or private entities to provide technical, financial, or other assistance to carry out this section.

Sec. 113. Land and resource management plans

In revising a land and resource management plan applicable to the Shasta-Trinity National Forest or the Six Rivers National Forest, the Secretary of Agriculture shall consider the purposes of the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area established by section 111(b).

Sec. 114. Annual fire management plans

In revising a fire management plan for a wilderness area or wilderness addition designated by section 131(a), the Secretary shall—

(1)

develop spatial fire management plans in accordance with—

(A)

the Guidance for Implementation of Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy, dated February 13, 2009 (or any amended, updated, or successor guidance); and

(B)

other appropriate policies;

(2)

consider how prescribed or managed fire can be used to achieve ecological management objectives of wilderness and other natural or primitive areas;

(3)

ensure that each such fire management plan applicable to a wilderness area to which land is added under section 131 provides consistent direction regarding fire management to the entire wilderness area, including the wilderness addition;

(4)

consult with—

(A)

appropriate State, Tribal, and local governmental entities; and

(B)

members of the public; and

(5)

comply with applicable law (including regulations).

Title II Recreation

Sec. 121. Bigfoot National Recreation Trail

(a) Feasibility study

(1) In general

Not later than 3 years after the date on which funds are made available to carry out this section, the Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this section as the Secretary), in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall prepare and submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives a study that describes the feasibility of establishing a national recreational trail for nonmotorized uses, to be known as Bigfoot National Recreation Trail, that follows the route described in paragraph (2).

(2) Route

The route referred to in paragraph (1) shall extend from the Ides Cove Trailhead in the Mendocino National Forest to Crescent City, California, following the route as generally depicted on the map titled Bigfoot National Recreation Trail—Proposed and dated July 25, 2018.

(3) Additional requirement

In completing the study required under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with—

(A)

appropriate Federal, State, Tribal, regional, and local agencies;

(B)

private landowners of land adjacent to, or in the vicinity of, the route described in paragraph (2);

(C)

nongovernmental organizations; and

(D)

interested members of the public.

(b) Designation

(1) In general

On completion of the study under subsection (a), if the Secretary determines that the Bigfoot National Recreation Trail is feasible and meets the requirements for a National Recreation Trail under section 4 of the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1243), the Secretary shall designate the Bigfoot National Recreation Trail (referred to in this section as the Trail) in accordance with—

(A)

the National Trails System Act (16 U.S.C. 1241 et seq.);

(B)

this Act; and

(C)

other applicable law (including regulations).

(2) Administration

On designation by the Secretary, the Trail shall be administered by the Secretary, in consultation with—

(A)

other Federal, State, Tribal, regional, and local agencies;

(B)

private landowners; and

(C)

other interested organizations.

(3) Private property rights

(A) In general

No portions of the Trail may be located on non-Federal land without the written consent of the landowner.

(B) Prohibition

The Secretary shall not acquire for the Trail any land or interest in land outside the exterior boundary of any federally managed area without the consent of the owner of the land or interest in the land.

(C) Effect

Nothing in this section—

(i)

requires any private property owner to allow public access (including Federal, State, or local government access) to private property; or

(ii)

modifies any provision of Federal, State, or local law with respect to public access to or use of private land.

(c) Cooperative agreements

In carrying out this section, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with State, Tribal, and local government entities and private entities—

(1)

to complete necessary Trail construction, reconstruction, realignment, or maintenance; or

(2)

to carry out education projects relating to the Trail.

(d) Map

(1) Map required

On designation of the Trail, the Secretary shall prepare a map of the Trail.

(2) Public availability

The map referred to in paragraph (1) shall be on file and available for public inspection in the appropriate offices of the Forest Service.

Sec. 122. Elk Camp Ridge Recreation Trail

(a) Designation

(1) In general

In accordance with paragraph (2), the Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this section as the Secretary), after providing an opportunity for public comment, shall designate a trail (which may include a system of trails)—

(A)

for use by off-highway vehicles, mountain bicycles, or both; and

(B)

to be known as the Elk Camp Ridge Recreation Trail (referred to in this section as the Trail).

(2) Requirements

In designating the Trail under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall only include routes that are—

(A)

as of the date of enactment of this Act, authorized for use by off-highway vehicles, mountain bicycles, or both; and

(B)

located on land that is managed by the Forest Service in Del Norte County in the State.

(3) Map

A map that depicts the Trail shall be on file and available for public inspection in the appropriate offices of the Forest Service.

(b) Management

(1) In general

The Secretary shall manage the Trail—

(A)

in accordance with applicable law (including regulations);

(B)

in a manner that ensures the safety of citizens who use the Trail; and

(C)

in a manner that minimizes any damage to sensitive habitat or cultural resources.

(2) Monitoring; evaluation

To minimize the impacts of the use of the Trail on environmental and cultural resources, the Secretary shall annually assess the effects of the use of off-highway vehicles and mountain bicycles on—

(A)

the Trail;

(B)

land located in proximity to the Trail; and

(C)

plants, wildlife, and wildlife habitat.

(3) Closure

The Secretary, in consultation with the State and Del Norte County in the State and subject to paragraph (4), may temporarily close, temporarily reroute, or permanently reroute a portion of the Trail if the Secretary determines that—

(A)

the Trail is having an adverse impact on—

(i)

wildlife habitat;

(ii)

natural resources;

(iii)

cultural resources; or

(iv)

traditional uses;

(B)

the Trail threatens public safety; or

(C)

closure of the Trail is necessary—

(i)

to repair damage to the Trail; or

(ii)

to repair resource damage.

(4) Rerouting

Any portion of the Trail that is temporarily closed by the Secretary under paragraph (3) may be permanently rerouted along any road or trail—

(A)

that is—

(i)

in existence as of the date of the closure of the portion of the Trail;

(ii)

located on public land; and

(iii)

open to motorized or mechanized use; and

(B)

if the Secretary determines that rerouting the portion of the Trail would not significantly increase or decrease the length of the Trail.

(5) Notice of available routes

The Secretary shall ensure that visitors to the Trail have access to adequate notice relating to the availability of trail routes through—

(A)

the placement of appropriate signage along the Trail; and

(B)

the distribution of maps, safety education materials, and other information that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(c) Effect

Nothing in this section affects the ownership, management, or other rights relating to any non-Federal land (including any interest in non-Federal land).

Sec. 123. Trinity Lake Trail

(a) Trail construction

(1) Feasibility study

Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall study the suitability and feasibility of constructing a recreational trail for nonmotorized uses around Trinity Lake (referred to in this section as the Trail).

(2) Construction

(A) Construction authorized

Subject to appropriations and in accordance with paragraph (3), if the Secretary determines under paragraph (1) that the construction of the Trail is suitable and feasible, the Secretary may provide for the construction of the Trail.

(B) Use of volunteer services and contributions

The Trail may be constructed under this section through the acceptance of volunteer services and contributions from non-Federal sources to reduce or eliminate the need for Federal expenditures to construct the Trail.

(3) Compliance

In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall comply with—

(A)

the laws (including regulations) generally applicable to the National Forest System; and

(B)

this Act.

(b) Effect

Nothing in this section affects the ownership, management, or other rights relating to any non-Federal land (including any interest in non-Federal land).

Sec. 124. Trails study

(a) In general

Not later than 3 years after the date on which funds are made available to carry out this section, the Secretary of Agriculture, in accordance with subsection (b) and in consultation with interested parties, shall conduct a study—

(1)

to improve motorized and nonmotorized recreation trail opportunities (including mountain bicycling) on land not designated as wilderness within the portions of the Six Rivers, Shasta-Trinity, and Mendocino National Forests located in Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, and Mendocino Counties in the State; and

(2)

of the feasibility of opening a new trail, for vehicles measuring 50 inches or less in width, connecting Forest Service Highway 95 to the existing off-highway vehicle trail system in the Ballinger Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle Area.

(b) Consultation

In carrying out the study under subsection (a), the Secretary of Agriculture shall consult with the Secretary of the Interior regarding opportunities to improve, through increased coordination, recreation trail opportunities on land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior that shares a boundary with the National Forest System land described in subsection (a)(1).

Sec. 125. Construction of mountain bicycling routes

(a) Trail construction

(1) Feasibility study

Not later than 3 years after the date on which funds are made available to carry out this section, the Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this section as the Secretary) shall study the feasibility and public interest with respect to constructing recreational trails for mountain bicycling and other nonmotorized uses on the routes generally depicted in the report titled Trail Study for Smith River National Recreation Area Six Rivers National Forest and dated 2016.

(2) Construction

(A) Construction authorized

Subject to appropriations and in accordance with paragraph (3), if the Secretary determines under paragraph (1) that the construction of 1 or more routes described in that paragraph is feasible and in the public interest, the Secretary may provide for the construction of the routes.

(B) Modifications

The Secretary may modify the routes, as determined to be necessary by the Secretary.

(C) Use of volunteer services and contributions

Routes may be constructed under this section through the acceptance of volunteer services and contributions from non-Federal sources to reduce or eliminate the need for Federal expenditures to construct the route.

(3) Compliance

In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall comply with—

(A)

the laws (including regulations) generally applicable to the National Forest System; and

(B)

this Act.

(b) Effect

Nothing in this section affects the ownership, management, or other rights relating to any non-Federal land (including any interest in non-Federal land).

Sec. 126. Partnerships

(a) Agreements authorized

The Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, or the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior acting jointly, may enter into agreements with qualified private and nonprofit organizations to carry out the following activities on Federal land under the jurisdiction of the respective Secretary in Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, and Del Norte Counties in the State:

(1)

Trail and campground maintenance.

(2)

Public education, visitor contacts, and outreach.

(3)

Visitor center staffing.

(b) Contents

An agreement entered into under subsection (a) shall clearly define the role and responsibility of the applicable Secretary and the private or nonprofit organization.

(c) Compliance

Each Secretary shall enter into agreements under subsection (a) in accordance with existing law.

(d) Effect

Nothing in this section—

(1)

reduces or diminishes the authority of each Secretary to manage land and resources under the jurisdiction of the Secretary; or

(2)

amends or modifies the application of any existing law (including regulations) applicable to land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary.

Sec. 127. Trinity Lake visitor center

(a) In general

The Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this section as the Secretary) may establish, in cooperation with any other public or private entity that the Secretary determines to be appropriate, a visitor center in Weaverville, California—

(1)

to serve visitors; and

(2)

to assist in fulfilling the purposes of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area.

(b) Requirements

The Secretary shall ensure that the visitor center authorized under subsection (a) is designed to provide for the interpretation of the scenic, biological, natural, historical, scientific, paleontological, recreational, ecological, wilderness, and cultural resources of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area and other Federal land in the vicinity of the visitor center.

(c) Cooperative agreements

In a manner consistent with this section, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with the State and any other appropriate institutions and organizations to carry out this section.

Sec. 128. Del Norte County visitor center

(a) In general

The Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior (referred to in this section as the Secretaries) may establish, in cooperation with any other public or private entity that the Secretaries determine to be appropriate, a visitor center in Del Norte County, California—

(1)

to serve visitors; and

(2)

to assist in fulfilling the purposes of Redwood National and State Parks, the Smith River National Recreation Area, and any other Federal recreational land in the vicinity of the visitor center.

(b) Requirements

In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretaries—

(1)

may act jointly or separately; and

(2)

shall ensure that the visitor center authorized under that subsection is designed to interpret the scenic, biological, natural, historical, scientific, paleontological, recreational, ecological, wilderness, and cultural resources of Redwood National and State Parks, the Smith River National Recreation Area, and any other Federal recreational land in the vicinity of the visitor center.

Sec. 129. Study; partnerships related to overnight accommodations

(a) Study

The Secretary of the Interior (referred to in this section as the Secretary), in consultation with interested Federal, State, Tribal, and local entities and private and nonprofit organizations, shall conduct a study to evaluate the feasibility and suitability of establishing overnight accommodations on Federal land that is—

(1)

outside of the boundaries of Redwood National and State Parks; and

(2)

within 20 miles of the northern or southern boundary of such Parks.

(b) Partnerships

(1) Agreements authorized

If the Secretary determines, based on the study conducted under subsection (a), that establishing the accommodations described in that subsection is suitable and feasible, the Secretary may, in accordance with applicable law, enter into 1 or more agreements with qualified private or nonprofit organizations for the development, operation, and maintenance of the accommodations.

(2) Contents

Any agreement entered into under paragraph (1) shall clearly define the role and responsibility of the Secretary and the private or nonprofit organization entering into the agreement.

(3) Effect

Nothing in this subsection—

(A)

reduces or diminishes the authority of the Secretary to manage land and resources under the jurisdiction of the Secretary; or

(B)

amends or modifies the application of any law (including regulations) applicable to land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary.

Title III Conservation

Sec. 131. Designation of wilderness

(a) In general

In accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), the following land within the State is designated as wilderness and as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System:

(1) Black Butte River Wilderness

Certain Federal land within the Mendocino National Forest, comprising approximately 11,155 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Black Butte River Wilderness—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which shall be known as the Black Butte River Wilderness.

(2) Chanchelulla Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, comprising approximately 6,382 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Chanchelulla Wilderness Additions—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Chanchelulla Wilderness designated by section 101(a)(4) of the California Wilderness Act of 1984 (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 98–425; 98 Stat. 1619).

(3) Chinquapin Wilderness

Certain Federal land in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, comprising approximately 31,028 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Chinquapin Wilderness—Proposed and dated November 14, 2023, which shall be known as the Chinquapin Wilderness.

(4) Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 37 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Proposed Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness Additions and dated February 2, 2022, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness designated by section 6(d) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2070).

(5) English Ridge Wilderness

Certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 6,204 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled English Ridge Wilderness—Proposed and dated February 2, 2022, which shall be known as the English Ridge Wilderness.

(6) Mad River Buttes Wilderness

Certain Federal land in the Six Rivers National Forest, comprising approximately 6,097 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Mad River Buttes Wilderness—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which shall be known as the Mad River Buttes Wilderness.

(7) Mount Lassic Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Six Rivers National Forest, comprising approximately 1,288 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Mt. Lassic Wilderness Additions—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Mount Lassic Wilderness designated by section 3(6) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2065).

(8) North Fork Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Six Rivers National Forest and certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 16,342 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled North Fork Eel Wilderness Additions and dated May 15, 2020, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the North Fork Wilderness designated by section 101(a)(19) of the California Wilderness Act of 1984 (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 98–425; 98 Stat. 1621).

(9) Pattison Wilderness

Certain Federal land in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, comprising approximately 29,451 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Pattison Wilderness—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which shall be known as the Pattison Wilderness.

(10) Siskiyou Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Six Rivers National Forest, comprising approximately 29,594 acres, as generally depicted on the maps titled Siskiyou Wilderness Additions—Proposed (North) and Siskiyou Wilderness Additions—Proposed (South) and dated November 14, 2023, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Siskiyou Wilderness, as designated by section 101(a)(30) of the California Wilderness Act of 1984 (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 98–425; 98 Stat. 1623).

(11) South Fork Eel River Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 603 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled South Fork Eel River Wilderness Additions—Proposed and dated February 2, 2022, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the South Fork Eel River Wilderness designated by section 3(10) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2066).

(12) South Fork Trinity River Wilderness

Certain Federal land in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, comprising approximately 26,562 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled South Fork Trinity River Wilderness Additions—Proposed and dated November 14, 2023, which shall be known as the South Fork Trinity River Wilderness.

(13) Trinity Alps Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 62,474 acres, as generally depicted on the maps titled Trinity Alps Proposed Wilderness Additions EAST and dated November 14, 2023, and Trinity Alps Wilderness Additions West—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Trinity Alps Wilderness designated by section 101(a)(34) of the California Wilderness Act of 1984 (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 98–425; 98 Stat. 1623).

(14) Underwood Wilderness

Certain Federal land in the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests comprising approximately 15,068 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Underwood Wilderness—Proposed and dated May 15, 2020, which shall be known as the Underwood Wilderness.

(15) Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Mendocino National Forest and certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 21,126 acres, as generally depicted on the maps titled Yolla Bolly Wilderness Proposed—NORTH and dated May 15, 2020, Yolla Bolly Wilderness Proposed—SOUTH and dated November 14, 2023, and Yolla Bolly Wilderness Proposed—WEST and dated May 15, 2020, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness designated under section 3 of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132).

(16) Yuki Wilderness addition

Certain Federal land in the Mendocino National Forest and certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 14,132 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Yuki Wilderness Additions—Proposed and dated November 14, 2023, which is incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Yuki Wilderness designated by section 3(3) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2065).

(b) Renaming of North Fork Wilderness as North Fork Eel River Wilderness

(1) In general

Section 101(a)(19) of the California Wilderness Act of 1984 (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 98–425; 98 Stat. 1621) is amended by striking which shall be known as the North Fork Wilderness and inserting which shall be known as the North Fork Eel River Wilderness.

(2) References

Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document, paper, or other record of the United States to the North Fork Wilderness shall be deemed to be a reference to the North Fork Eel River Wilderness.

(c) Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness modification

The boundary of the Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness established by section 6(d) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2070) is modified to exclude the area comprising approximately 30 acres of Federal land, as generally depicted on the map titled Proposed Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness Additions and dated October 24, 2019.

Sec. 132. Administration of wilderness

(a) In general

Subject to valid existing rights, land designated as wilderness and as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System by section 131(a) (referred to in this section as a wilderness area) shall be administered by the Secretary in accordance with this Act and the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), except that—

(1)

any reference in the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) to the effective date of that Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) shall be considered to be a reference to the date of enactment of this Act; and

(2)

for land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior, any reference in the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) to the Secretary of Agriculture shall be considered to be a reference to the Secretary of the Interior.

(b) Fire management and related activities

(1) In general

The Secretary may carry out any activities in a wilderness area as are necessary for the control of fire, insects, or disease in accordance with section 4(d)(1) of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1133(d)(1)).

(2) Revision and development of local fire management plans

As soon as practicable after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall amend the local information in the Fire Management Reference System of the Forest Service or individual operational plan that applies to each wilderness area.

(3) Funding priorities

Nothing in this title limits funding for fire or fuels management in a wilderness area.

(4) Administration

In accordance with paragraph (1) and any other applicable Federal law, to ensure a timely and efficient response to a fire emergency in a wilderness area, the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior shall—

(A)

not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, establish agency approval procedures (including appropriate delegations of authority to the Forest Supervisor, District Manager, and other applicable agency field office officials) for responding to fire emergencies; and

(B)

enter into agreements with appropriate State or local firefighting agencies.

(c) Grazing

The grazing of livestock in a wilderness area, if established before the date of the enactment of this Act, shall be administered in accordance with—

(1)

section 4(d)(4) of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1133(d)(4));

(2)

(A)

for land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Agriculture, 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); and

(B)

for land under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior, the guidelines set forth in Appendix A of the report of the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs of the House of Representatives accompanying H.R. 2570 of the 101st Congress (H. Rept. 101–405); and

(3)

all other laws governing livestock grazing on Federal public land.

(d) Fish and wildlife

(1) In general

Nothing in this title shall be construed to affect the jurisdiction or responsibilities of the State with respect to fish and wildlife in the State.

(2) Management activities

In support of the purposes and principles of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), the Secretary may conduct any management activity in a wilderness area that the Secretary determines to be necessary to maintain or restore a fish, wildlife, or plant population or habitat, if the management activity is conducted in accordance with—

(A)

an applicable wilderness management plan;

(B)

the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.); and

(C)

appropriate policies, such as the policies established in Appendix B of the report of the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs of the House of Representatives accompanying H.R. 2570 of the 101st Congress (H. Rept. 101–405).

(e) Buffer zones

(1) In general

Nothing in this title establishes a protective perimeter or buffer zone around a wilderness area.

(2) Outside activities or uses

The fact that a nonwilderness activity or use can be seen or heard from within a wilderness area does not preclude the activity or use outside the boundary of the wilderness area.

(f) Military activities

Nothing in this title restricts or precludes—

(1)

low-level overflights of military aircraft over a wilderness area;

(2)

the designation of a new unit of special airspace over a wilderness area; or

(3)

the use or establishment of a military flight training route over a wilderness area.

(g) Horses

Nothing in this title precludes horseback riding in, or the entry of recreational or commercial saddle or pack stock into, a wilderness area—

(1)

in accordance with section 4(d)(5) of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1133(d)(5)); and

(2)

subject to any terms and conditions determined to be necessary by the Secretary.

(h) Recreational climbing

Nothing in this title prohibits recreational rock climbing activities in a wilderness area, such as the placement, use, and maintenance of fixed anchors, including any fixed anchor established before the date of the enactment of this Act—

(1)

in accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) and other applicable laws; and

(2)

subject to any terms and conditions determined to be necessary by the Secretary.

(i) Withdrawal

Subject to valid existing rights, each wilderness 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 materials and geothermal leasing laws.

(j) Incorporation of acquired land and interests

Any land within the boundary of a wilderness area that is acquired by the United States shall—

(1)

become part of the wilderness area within which the land is located;

(2)

be withdrawn in accordance with subsection (i); and

(3)

be managed in accordance with—

(A)

this section;

(B)

the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.); and

(C)

any other applicable law.

(k) Climatological data collection

In accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) and subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe, the Secretary may authorize the installation and maintenance of hydrologic, meteorologic, or climatological collection devices in a wilderness area if the Secretary determines that the devices and access to the devices are essential to a flood warning, flood control, or water reservoir operation activity.

Sec. 133. Designation of potential wilderness

(a) Designation

In furtherance of the purposes of the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), the following land is designated as potential wilderness:

(1)

Certain Federal land in Redwood National Park administered by the National Park Service, compromising approximately 31,000 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Redwood National Park—Potential Wilderness and dated October 9, 2019.

(2)

Certain Federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the State, comprising approximately 2,918 acres, as generally depicted on the map titled Yuki Proposed Potential Wilderness and dated May 15, 2020.

(b) Management

Except as provided in subsection (c), the Secretary shall manage land designated as potential wilderness by subsection (a) (referred to in this section as a potential wilderness area) as wilderness until the date on which the potential wilderness area is designated as wilderness under subsection (d).

(c) Ecological restoration

(1) In general

For purposes of ecological restoration, including the elimination of nonnative species, removal of illegal, unused, or decommissioned roads, repair of skid tracks, and any other activities necessary to restore the natural ecosystems in a potential wilderness area and consistent with paragraph (2), the Secretary may use motorized equipment and mechanized transport in a potential wilderness area until the date on which the potential wilderness area is designated as wilderness under subsection (d).

(2) Limitation

To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall use the minimum tool or administrative practice necessary to accomplish ecological restoration with the least amount of adverse impact on wilderness character and resources.

(d) Wilderness designation

A potential wilderness area shall be designated as wilderness and as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System on the date on which the Secretary publishes in the Federal Register notice that the conditions in the potential wilderness area that are incompatible with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) have been removed.

(e) Administration as wilderness

On the date on which a potential wilderness area is designated as wilderness under subsection (d)—

(1)

the land described in subsection (a)(1) shall be administered in accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) and the laws generally applicable to units of the National Park System; and

(2)

the land described in subsection (a)(2) shall be incorporated in, and considered to be a part of, the Yuki Wilderness designated by section 3(3) of the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 109–362; 120 Stat. 2065).

(f) Report

Not later than 3 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 3 years thereafter until the date on which each potential wilderness area is designated as wilderness under subsection (d), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes—

(1)

the status of ecological restoration within each potential wilderness area; and

(2)

the progress toward the eventual designation of each potential wilderness area as wilderness under subsection (d).

Sec. 134. Designation of wild and scenic rivers

(a) Designation

Section 3(a) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1274(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following:

(233) South Fork Trinity River, California
The following segments of the South Fork Trinity River, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 18.3-mile segment from its multiple source springs in the Cedar Basin of the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness in sec. 15, T. 27 N., R. 10 W., to 0.25 miles upstream of Wild Mad Road, as a wild river.
(B)
The 0.65-mile segment from 0.25 miles upstream of Wild Mad Road to the confluence with the unnamed tributary approximately 0.4 miles downstream of the Wild Mad Road in sec. 29, T. 28 N., R. 11 W., as a scenic river.
(C)
The 9.8-mile segment from 0.75 miles downstream of Wild Mad Road to Silver Creek, as a wild river.
(D)
The 5.4-mile segment from Silver Creek confluence to Farley Creek, as a scenic river.
(E)
The 3.6-mile segment from Farley Creek to Cave Creek, as a recreational river.
(F)
The 5.6-mile segment from Cave Creek to the confluence of the unnamed creek upstream of Hidden Valley Ranch in sec. 5, T. 15, R. 7 E., as a wild river.
(G)
The 2.5-mile segment from the unnamed creek confluence upstream of Hidden Valley Ranch to the confluence with the unnamed creek flowing west from Bear Wallow Mountain in sec. 29, T. 1 N., R. 7 E., as a scenic river.
(H)
The 3.8-mile segment from the unnamed creek confluence in sec. 29, T. 1 N., R. 7 E., to Plummer Creek, as a wild river.
(I)
The 1.8-mile segment from Plummer Creek to the confluence with the unnamed tributary north of McClellan Place in sec. 6, T. 1 N., R. 7 E., as a scenic river.
(J)
The 5.4-mile segment from the unnamed creek confluence in sec. 6, T. 1 N., R. 7 E., to Hitchcock Creek, as a wild river.
(K)
The 7-mile segment from Eltapom Creek to the Grouse Creek, as a scenic river.
(L)
The 5-mile segment from Grouse Creek to Coon Creek, as a wild river.
(234) East Fork South Fork Trinity River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 8.4-mile segment from its source in the Pettijohn Basin in the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness in sec. 10, T. 3 S., R. 10 W., to 0.25 miles upstream of Wild Mad Road, as a wild river.
(B)
The 3.4-mile segment from 0.25 miles upstream of Wild Mad Road to the South Fork Trinity River, as a recreational river.
(235) Rattlesnake Creek, California
The 5.9-mile segment from the confluence with the unnamed tributary in the southeast corner of sec. 5, T. 1 S., R. 12 W., to the South Fork Trinity River, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture as a recreational river.
(236) Butter Creek, California
The 7-mile segment from 0.25 miles downstream of Road 3N08 crossing to the South Fork Trinity River, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture as a scenic river.
(237) Hayfork Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 3.2-mile segment from Little Creek to Bear Creek, as a recreational river.
(B)
The 13.2-mile segment from Bear Creek to the northern boundary of sec. 19, T. 3 N., R. 7 E., as a scenic river.
(238) Olsen Creek, California
The 2.8-mile segment from the confluence of its source tributaries in sec. 5, T. 3 N., R. 7 E., to the northern boundary of sec. 24, T. 3 N., R. 6 E., to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a scenic river.
(239) Rusch Creek, California
The 3.2-mile segment from 0.25 miles downstream of the 32N11 Road crossing to Hayfork Creek, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture as a recreational river.
(240) Eltapom Creek, California
The 3.4-mile segment from Buckhorn Creek to the South Fork Trinity River, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture as a wild river.
(241) Grouse Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 3.9-mile segment from Carson Creek to Cow Creek, as a scenic river.
(B)
The 7.4-mile segment from Cow Creek to the South Fork Trinity River, as a recreational river.
(242) Madden Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 6.8-mile segment from the confluence of Madden Creek and its unnamed tributary in sec. 18, T. 5 N., R. 5 E., to Fourmile Creek, as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.6-mile segment from Fourmile Creek to the South Fork Trinity River, as a recreational river.
(243) Canyon Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 6.6-mile segment from the outlet of lower Canyon Creek Lake to Bear Creek upstream of Ripstein, as a wild river.
(B)
The 11.2-mile segment from Bear Creek upstream of Ripstein to the southern boundary of sec. 25, T. 34 N., R. 11 W., as a recreational river.
(244) North Fork Trinity River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 12-mile segment from the confluence of its source tributaries in sec. 24, T. 8 N., R. 12 W., to the Trinity Alps Wilderness boundary upstream of Hobo Gulch, as a wild river.
(B)
The 0.5-mile segment from where the river leaves the Trinity Alps Wilderness to where it fully reenters the Trinity Alps Wilderness downstream of Hobo Gulch, as a scenic river.
(C)
The 13.9-mile segment from where the river fully reenters the Trinity Alps Wilderness downstream of Hobo Gulch to the Trinity Alps Wilderness boundary upstream of the County Road 421 crossing, as a wild river.
(D)
The 1.3-mile segment from the Trinity Alps Wilderness boundary upstream of the County Road 421 crossing to the Trinity River, as a recreational river.
(245) East Fork North Fork Trinity River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 9.5-mile segment from the source north of Mt. Hilton in sec. 19, T. 36 N., R. 10 W., to the end of Road 35N20 approximately 0.5 miles downstream of the confluence with the East Branch East Fork North Fork Trinity River, as a wild river.
(B)
The 3.25-mile segment from the end of Road 35N20 to 0.25 miles upstream of Coleridge, as a scenic river.
(C)
The 4.6-mile segment from 0.25 miles upstream of Coleridge to the confluence of Fox Gulch, as a recreational river.
(246) New River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 12.7-mile segment of Virgin Creek from its source spring in sec. 22, T. 9 N., R. 7 E., to Slide Creek, as a wild river.
(B)
The 2.3-mile segment of the New River where it begins at the confluence of Virgin Creek and Slide Creek to Barron Creek, as a wild river.
(247) Middle Fork Eel River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 37.7-mile segment from its source in Frying Pan Meadow to Rose Creek, as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.5-mile segment from Rose Creek to the Black Butte River, as a recreational river.
(C)
The 10.5-mile segment of Balm of Gilead Creek from its source in Hopkins Hollow to the Middle Eel River, as a wild river.
(D)
The 13-mile segment of the North Fork Middle Fork Eel River from the source on Dead Puppy Ridge in sec. 11, T. 26 N., R. 11 W., to the confluence of the Middle Eel River, as a wild river.
(248) North Fork Eel River, California
The 14.3-mile segment from the confluence with Gilman Creek to the Six Rivers National Forest boundary, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture as a wild river.
(249) Red Mountain Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture:
(A)
The 5.25-mile segment from its source west of Mike’s Rock in sec. 23, T. 26 N., R. 12 E., to the confluence with Littlefield Creek, as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.6-mile segment from the confluence with Littlefield Creek to the confluence with the unnamed tributary in sec. 32, T. 26 N., R. 8 E., as a scenic river.
(C)
The 1.25-mile segment from the confluence with the unnamed tributary in sec. 32, T. 4 S., R. 8 E., to the confluence with the North Fork Eel River, as a wild river.
(250) Redwood Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 6.2-mile segment from the confluence with Lacks Creek to the confluence with Coyote Creek, as a scenic river, on publication by the Secretary of the Interior of a notice in the Federal Register that sufficient land or interests in land within the boundaries of the segment has been acquired in fee title or as a scenic easement to establish a manageable addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
(B)
The 19.1-mile segment from the confluence with Coyote Creek in sec. 2, T. 8 N., R. 2 E., to the Redwood National Park boundary upstream of Orick in sec. 34, T. 11 N., R. 1 E., as a scenic river.
(C)
The 2.3-mile segment of Emerald Creek (also known as Harry Weir Creek) from its source in sec. 29, T. 10 N., R. 2 E., to the confluence with Redwood Creek, as a scenic river.
(251) Lacks Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 5.1-mile segment from the confluence with 2 unnamed tributaries in sec. 14, T. 7 N., R. 3 E., to Kings Crossing in sec. 27, T. 8 N., R. 3 E., as a wild river.
(B)
The 2.7-mile segment from Kings Crossing to the confluence with Redwood Creek, as a scenic river, on publication by the Secretary of a notice in the Federal Register that sufficient inholdings within the segment have been acquired in fee title or as scenic easements to establish a manageable addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
(252) Lost Man Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 6.4-mile segment of Lost Man Creek from its source in sec. 5, T. 10 N., R. 2 E., to 0.25 miles upstream of the Prairie Creek confluence, as a recreational river.
(B)
The 2.3-mile segment of Larry Damm Creek from its source in sec. 8, T. 11 N., R. 2 E., to the confluence with Lost Man Creek, as a recreational river.
(253) Little Lost Man Creek, California
The 3.6-mile segment of Little Lost Man Creek from its source in sec. 6, T. 10 N., R. 2 E., to 0.25 miles upstream of the Lost Man Creek road crossing, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(254) South Fork Elk River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior (including through a cooperative management agreement with the State of California, where appropriate):
(A)
The 3.6-mile segment of the Little South Fork Elk River from the source in sec. 21, T. 3 N., R. 1 E., to the confluence with the South Fork Elk River, as a wild river.
(B)
The 2.2-mile segment of the unnamed tributary of the Little South Fork Elk River from its source in sec. 15, T. 3 N., R. 1 E., to the confluence with the Little South Fork Elk River, as a wild river.
(C)
The 3.6-mile segment of the South Fork Elk River from the confluence of the Little South Fork Elk River to the confluence with Tom Gulch, as a recreational river.
(255) Salmon Creek, California
The 4.6-mile segment from its source in sec. 27, T. 3 N., R. 1 E., to the Headwaters Forest Reserve boundary in sec. 18, T. 3 N., R. 1 E., to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(256) South Fork Eel River, California
The following segments:
(A)
The 6.2-mile segment from the confluence with Jack of Hearts Creek to the southern boundary of the South Fork Eel Wilderness in sec. 8, T. 22 N., R. 16 W., to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior through a cooperative management agreement with the State of California as a recreational river.
(B)
The 6.1-mile segment from the southern boundary of the South Fork Eel Wilderness to the northern boundary of the South Fork Eel Wilderness in sec. 29, T. 23 N., R. 16 W., to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(257) Elder Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior through a cooperative management agreement with the State of California:
(A)
The 3.6-mile segment from its source north of Signal Peak in sec. 6, T. 21 N., R. 15 W., to the confluence with the unnamed tributary near the center of sec. 28, T. 22 N., R. 16 W., as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.3-mile segment from the confluence with the unnamed tributary near the center of sec. 28, T. 22 N., R. 15 W., to the confluence with the South Fork Eel River, as a recreational river.
(C)
The 2.1-mile segment of Paralyze Canyon from its source south of Signal Peak in sec. 7, T. 21 N., R. 15 W., to the confluence with Elder Creek, as a wild river.
(258) Cedar Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 7.7-mile segment from its source in sec. 22, T. 24 N., R. 16 W., to the southern boundary of the Red Mountain unit of the South Fork Eel Wilderness, as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.9-mile segment of North Fork Cedar Creek from its source in sec. 28, T. 24 N., R. 16 E., to the confluence with Cedar Creek, as a wild river.
(259) East Branch South Fork Eel River, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior on publication by the Secretary of a notice in the Federal Register that sufficient inholdings within the boundaries of the segments have been acquired in fee title or as scenic easements to establish a manageable addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System:
(A)
The 2.3-mile segment of Cruso Cabin Creek from the confluence of 2 unnamed tributaries in sec. 18, T. 24 N., R. 15 W., to the confluence with Elkhorn Creek, as a scenic river.
(B)
The 1.8-mile segment of Elkhorn Creek from the confluence of 2 unnamed tributaries in sec. 22, T. 24 N., R. 16 W., to the confluence with Cruso Cabin Creek, as a scenic river.
(C)
The 14.2-mile segment of the East Branch South Fork Eel River from the confluence of Cruso Cabin and Elkhorn Creeks to the confluence with Rays Creek, as a scenic river.
(D)
The 1.7-mile segment of the unnamed tributary from its source on the north flank of the north ridge of Red Mountain in sec. 2, T. 24 N., R. 17 W., to the confluence with the East Branch South Fork Eel River, as a scenic river.
(E)
The 1.3-mile segment of the unnamed tributary from its source on the north flank of the north ridge of Red Mountain in sec. 1, T. 24 N., R. 17 W., to the confluence with the East Branch South Fork Eel River, as a scenic river.
(F)
The 1.8-mile segment of Tom Long Creek from the confluence with the unnamed tributary in sec. 12, T. 5 S., R. 4 E., to the confluence with the East Branch South Fork Eel River, as a scenic river.
(260) Mattole River Estuary, California
The 1.5-mile segment from the confluence of Stansberry Creek to the Pacific Ocean, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a recreational river.
(261) Honeydew Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 5.1-mile segment of Honeydew Creek from its source in the southwest corner of sec. 25, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the eastern boundary of the King Range National Conservation Area in sec. 18, T. 3 S., R. 1 E, as a wild river.
(B)
The 2.8-mile segment of West Fork Honeydew Creek from its source west of North Slide Peak to the confluence with Honeydew Creek, as a wild river.
(C)
The 2.7-mile segment of Upper East Fork Honeydew Creek from its source in sec. 23, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the confluence with Honeydew Creek, as a wild river.
(262) Bear Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 1.9-mile segment of North Fork Bear Creek from the confluence with the unnamed tributary immediately downstream of the Horse Mountain Road crossing to the confluence with the South Fork, as a scenic river.
(B)
The 6.1-mile segment of South Fork Bear Creek from the confluence in sec. 2, T. 5 S., R. 1 W., with the unnamed tributary flowing from the southwest flank of Queen Peak to the confluence with the North Fork, as a scenic river.
(C)
The 3-mile segment of Bear Creek from the confluence of the North and South Forks to the southern boundary of sec. 11, T. 4 S., R. 1 E., as a wild river.
(263) Gitchell Creek, California
The 3-mile segment of Gitchell Creek from its source near Saddle Mountain to the Pacific Ocean, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(264) Big Flat Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 4-mile segment of Big Flat Creek from its source near King Peak in sec. 36, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the Pacific Ocean, as a wild river.
(B)
The 0.8-mile segment of the unnamed tributary from its source in sec. 35, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the confluence with Big Flat Creek, as a wild river.
(C)
The 2.7-mile segment of North Fork Big Flat Creek from the source in sec. 34, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the confluence with Big Flat Creek, as a wild river.
(265) Big Creek, California
The following segments, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior:
(A)
The 2.7-mile segment of Big Creek from its source in sec. 26, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the Pacific Ocean, as a wild river.
(B)
The 1.9-mile unnamed southern tributary from its source in sec. 25, T. 3 S., R. 1 W., to the confluence with Big Creek, as a wild river.
(266) Elk Creek, California
The 11.4-mile segment from its confluence with Lookout Creek to its confluence with Deep Hole Creek, to be jointly administered by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(267) Eden Creek, California
The 2.7-mile segment from the private property boundary in the northwest quarter of sec. 27, T. 21 N., R. 12 W., to the eastern boundary of sec. 23, T. 21 N., R. 12 W., to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(268) Deep Hole Creek
The 4.3-mile segment from the private property boundary in the southwest quarter of sec. 13, T. 20 N., R. 12 W., to the confluence with Elk Creek, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(269) Indian Creek, California
The 3.3-mile segment from 300 feet downstream of the jeep trail in sec. 13, T. 20 N., R. 13 W., to the confluence with the Eel River, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.
(270) Fish Creek, California
The 4.2-mile segment from the source at Buckhorn Spring to the confluence with the Eel River, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a wild river.

Sec. 135. Special management areas

(a) Establishment of special management areas

(1) Horse Mountain Special Management Area

(A) Establishment

Subject to valid existing rights, there is established the Horse Mountain Special Management Area, comprising approximately 7,482 acres of Federal land in the Six Rivers National Forest, as generally depicted on the map titled Horse Mountain Special Management Area and dated May 15, 2020.

(B) Purpose

The purpose of the Horse Mountain Special Management Area is to enhance the recreational and scenic values of the special management area while conserving the plants, wildlife, and other natural resource values of the area.

(2) Sanhedrin Special Management Area

(A) Establishment

Subject to valid existing rights, there is established the Sanhedrin Special Management Area, comprising approximately 12,254 acres of Federal land in the Mendocino National Forest, as generally depicted on the map titled Sanhedrin Special Management Area and dated November 14, 2023.

(B) Purposes

The purposes of the Sanhedrin Special Management Area are—

(i)

to conserve, protect, and enhance for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations the ecological, scenic, wildlife, recreational, roadless, cultural, historical, natural, educational, and scientific resources of the area;

(ii)

to protect and restore late-successional forest structure, oak woodlands and grasslands, aquatic habitat, and anadromous fisheries within the area;

(iii)

to protect and restore the undeveloped character of the area; and

(iv)

to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic, natural, cultural, and wildlife values of the area.

(b) Management plan

(1) In general

Not later than 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act and in accordance with paragraph (2), the Secretary of Agriculture (in this section referred to as the Secretary) shall develop a comprehensive plan for the long-term management of the special management areas established by subsection (a) (in this section referred to as a special management area).

(2) Consultation

In developing the management plan required under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with—

(A)

appropriate State, Tribal, and local governmental entities; and

(B)

members of the public.

(3) Additional requirement

The management plan required under paragraph (1) shall ensure that recreational use within a special management area does not cause significant adverse impacts on the plants and wildlife of the special management area.

(c) Management

(1) In general

The Secretary shall manage a special management area—

(A)

in furtherance of the purpose for the applicable special management area described in subsection (a); and

(B)

in accordance with—

(i)

the laws (including regulations) generally applicable to the National Forest System;

(ii)

this section; and

(iii)

any other applicable law (including regulations).

(2) Uses

The Secretary shall only allow uses of a special management area that the Secretary determines would further the purposes of the applicable special management area described in subsection (a).

(3) Recreation

The Secretary shall continue to authorize, maintain, and enhance the recreational use of the special management areas, including hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, hang gliding, sightseeing, nature study, horseback riding, rafting, mountain bicycling, motorized recreation on authorized routes, and other recreational activities, if the recreational use is consistent with—

(A)

the purpose of the applicable special management area;

(B)

this section;

(C)

other applicable law (including regulations); and

(D)

any applicable management plans.

(4) Motorized vehicles

(A) In general

Except as provided in subparagraph (C), the use of motorized vehicles in a special management area shall be permitted only on existing roads, trails, and areas designated for use by such vehicles as of the date of enactment of this Act.

(B) New or temporary roads

Except as provided in subparagraph (C), no new or temporary roads shall be constructed within a special management area.

(C) Exceptions

Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) or (B), the Secretary may—

(i)

reroute or close an existing road or trail to protect natural resources from degradation, or to protect public safety, as determined to be appropriate by the Secretary;

(ii)

designate routes of travel on land acquired by the Secretary and incorporated into a special management area if the designations are—

(I)

consistent with the purposes of the applicable special management area described in subsection (a); and

(II)

completed, to the maximum extent practicable, not later than 3 years after the date of such acquisition;

(iii)

construct a temporary road on which motorized vehicles are permitted as part of a vegetation management project carried out in accordance with subparagraph (D); or

(iv)

authorize the use of motorized vehicles—

(I)

for administrative purposes; or

(II)

to respond to an emergency.

(D) Decommissioning of temporary roads

(i) Definition of decommission

In this subparagraph, the term decommission means, with respect to a road—

(I)

to reestablish vegetation on the road; and

(II)

to restore any natural drainage, watershed function, or other ecological processes that are disrupted or adversely impacted by the road by removing or hydrologically disconnecting the road prism.

(ii) Requirement

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 under subparagraph (C)(iii).

(d) Timber harvest

(1) In general

Except as provided in paragraph (2), no harvesting of timber shall be allowed within a special management area.

(2) Exceptions

The Secretary may authorize harvesting of timber in a special management area—

(A)

if the Secretary determines that the harvesting is necessary to further the purposes of the special management area;

(B)

in a manner consistent with the purposes for the applicable special management area; and

(C)

subject to—

(i)

such reasonable regulations, policies, and practices as the Secretary determines to be appropriate; and

(ii)

all applicable laws (including regulations).

(e) Grazing

The grazing of livestock in a special management area, where established before the date of the enactment of this Act, shall be permitted to continue—

(1)

subject to—

(A)

such reasonable regulations, policies, and practices as the Secretary considers necessary; and

(B)

applicable law (including regulations); and

(2)

in a manner consistent with the purposes of the applicable special management area described in subsection (a).

(f) Wildfire, insect, and disease

Consistent with this section, the Secretary may carry out any activities within a special management area that the Secretary determines to be necessary to control fire, insects, or diseases, including the coordination of those activities with a State or local agency.

(g) Acquisition and incorporation of land and interests in land

(1) Acquisition authority

In accordance with applicable laws (including regulations), the Secretary may acquire any land or interest in land within or adjacent to the boundaries of a special management area by purchase from a willing seller, donation, or exchange.

(2) Incorporation

Any land or interest in land acquired by the Secretary under paragraph (1) shall be—

(A)

incorporated into, and administered as part of, the applicable special management area; and

(B)

withdrawn in accordance with subsection (i).

(h) Tribal agreements and partnerships

To the maximum extent practicable and in accordance with applicable laws, on request of an affected federally recognized Indian Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior (acting through the Director of the Bureau of Land Management) and the Secretary of Agriculture (acting through the Chief of the Forest Service) shall enter into agreements, contracts, and other cooperative and collaborative partnerships with the federally recognized Indian Tribe regarding management of a special management area under relevant Federal authority, including—

(1)

the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.);

(2)

the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.);

(3)

the Tribal Self-Governance Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 5361 et seq.);

(4)

the Tribal Forest Protection Act of 2004 (25 U.S.C. 3115a et seq.);

(5)

the good neighbor authority under section 8206 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (16 U.S.C. 2113a);

(6)

Executive Order 13175 (25 U.S.C. 5301 note; relating to consultation and coordination with Indian Tribal Governments);

(7)

Secretarial Order 3342, issued by the Secretary of the Interior on October 21, 2016 (relating to identifying opportunities for cooperative and collaborative partnerships with federally recognized Indian Tribes in the management of Federal lands and resources); and

(8)

Joint Secretarial Order 3403, issued by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture on November 15, 2021 (relating to fulfilling the trust responsibility to Indian Tribes in the stewardship of Federal lands and waters).

(i) Withdrawal

Subject to valid existing rights, all Federal land located in a special management area 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.

Title IV Miscellaneous

Sec. 141. 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 South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area established by section 111(b);

(2)

the wilderness areas and wilderness additions designated by section 131(a);

(3)

the potential wilderness areas designated by section 133(a); and

(4)

the Horse Mountain Special Management Area and Sanhedrin Special Management Area established by section 135(a).

(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 Act, except that the Secretary may correct any clerical and 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, the Bureau of Land Management, or the National Park Service, as applicable.

Sec. 142. Updates to land and resource management plans

As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, in accordance with applicable law (including regulations), the Secretary shall incorporate the designations and studies required by this Act into updated management plans for units covered by this Act.

Sec. 143. Pacific Gas and Electric Company utility facilities and rights-of-way

(a) Effect of Act

Nothing in this Act—

(1)

affects any validly issued right-of-way for the customary operation, maintenance, upgrade, repair, relocation within an existing right-of-way, replacement, or other authorized activity (including the use of any mechanized vehicle, helicopter, and other aerial device) in a right-of-way acquired by or issued, granted, or permitted to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (including any predecessor or successor in interest or assign) that is located on land included in—

(A)

the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area established by section 111(b);

(B)

the Bigfoot National Recreation Trail established under section 121(b)(1); or

(C)

the Horse Mountain Special Management Area or Sanhedrin Special Management Area established by section 135(a); or

(2)

prohibits the upgrading or replacement of any—

(A)

utility facilities of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, including those utility facilities in existence on the date of enactment of this Act within—

(i)

the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area known as—

(I)

Gas Transmission Line 177A or rights-of-way;

(II)

Gas Transmission Line DFM 1312–02 or rights-of-way;

(III)

Electric Transmission Line Bridgeville-Cottonwood 115 kV or rights-of-way;

(IV)

Electric Transmission Line Humboldt-Trinity 60 kV or rights-of-way;

(V)

Electric Transmission Line Humboldt-Trinity 115 kV or rights-of-way;

(VI)

Electric Transmission Line Maple Creek-Hoopa 60 kV or rights-of-way;

(VII)

Electric Distribution Line-Willow Creek 1101 12 kV or rights-of-way;

(VIII)

Electric Distribution Line-Willow Creek 1103 12 kV or rights-of-way;

(IX)

Electric Distribution Line-Low Gap 1101 12 kV or rights-of-way;

(X)

Electric Distribution Line-Fort Seward 1121 12 kV or rights-of-way;

(XI)

Forest Glen Border District Regulator Station or rights-of-way;

(XII)

Durret District Gas Regulator Station or rights-of-way;

(XIII)

Gas Distribution Line 4269C or rights-of-way;

(XIV)

Gas Distribution Line 43991 or rights-of-way;

(XV)

Gas Distribution Line 4993D or rights-of-way;

(XVI)

Sportsmans Club District Gas Regulator Station or rights-of-way;

(XVII)

Highway 36 and Zenia District Gas Regulator Station or rights-of-way;

(XVIII)

Dinsmore Lodge 2nd Stage Gas Regulator Station or rights-of-way;

(XIX)

Electric Distribution Line-Wildwood 1101 12kV or rights-of-way;

(XX)

Low Gap Substation;

(XXI)

Hyampom Switching Station; or

(XXII)

Wildwood Substation;

(ii)

the Bigfoot National Recreation Trail known as—

(I)

Gas Transmission Line 177A or rights-of-way;

(II)

Electric Transmission Line Humboldt-Trinity 115 kV or rights-of-way;

(III)

Electric Transmission Line Bridgeville-Cottonwood 115 kV or rights-of-way; or

(IV)

Electric Transmission Line Humboldt-Trinity 60 kV or rights-of- way;

(iii)

the Sanhedrin Special Management Area known as Electric Distribution Line-Willits 1103 12 kV or rights-of-way; or

(iv)

the Horse Mountain Special Management Area known as Electric Distribution Line Willow Creek 1101 12 kV or rights-of-way; or

(B)

utility facilities of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company in rights-of-way issued, granted, or permitted by the Secretary adjacent to a utility facility referred to in subparagraph (A).

(b) Plans for access

Not later than the later of the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act or the date of issuance of a new utility facility right-of-way within the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area, Bigfoot National Recreation Trail, Sanhedrin Special Management Area, or Horse Mountain Special Management Area, the Secretary, in consultation with the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, shall publish plans for regular and emergency access by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company to the inholdings and rights-of-way of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

Sec. 144. Release of wilderness study area

(a) Finding

Congress finds that, for purposes of section 603 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1782), any portion of the Eden Valley Wilderness Study Area that is not designated as a wilderness area or wilderness addition by section 301(a) has been adequately studied for wilderness designation.

(b) Release

Any portion of a wilderness study area described in subsection (a) that is not designated as a wilderness area or wilderness addition by section 301(a) is no longer subject to section 603(c) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1782(c)).

Sec. 145. Use by members of Indian Tribes

(a) Access

The Secretary shall ensure that Indian Tribes have access, in accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.), to the South Fork Trinity-Mad River Restoration Area, wilderness areas, special management areas, and potential wilderness areas designated by this Act for traditional cultural and religious purposes.

(b) Temporary closures

(1) In general

In carrying out this section, the Secretary, on request of an Indian Tribe, may temporarily close to the general public 1 or more specific portions of a wilderness area or potential wilderness area designated by this Act to protect the privacy of the members of the Indian Tribe in the conduct of traditional cultural and religious activities.

(2) Requirement

Any closure under paragraph (1) shall be—

(A)

made in such a manner as to affect the smallest practicable area for the minimum period of time necessary for the activity to be carried out; and

(B)

be consistent with—

(i)

Public Law 95–341 (commonly known as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act) (42 U.S.C. 1996 et seq.); and

(ii)

the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.).