The "Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025" designates segments of the Myakka River in Sarasota County, Florida, as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System,tasking the Secretary of the Interior to coorperate with the Myakka River Management Coordinating Council to protect and manage the river through cooperative agreements, technical assistance, and limited land acquisition from willing sellers only.
W. Steube
Representative
FL-17
The "Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025" designates segments of the Myakka River in Sarasota County, Florida, as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior in partnership with the Myakka River Management Coordinating Council. This act allows the Secretary to coordinate with state and local entities to protect the river, offer technical and financial assistance for the comprehensive management plan, and specifies that land acquisition will only occur through donation or willing sellers, prohibiting the use of eminent domain. The Myakka River Management Council will coordinate management of the Myakka River by working with the Secretary of Interior to update and implement a comprehensive management plan. A representative from the National Park Service will be added to the Council.
Myakka River Gets Federal Protection: New Law Designates 34 Miles as 'Wild and Scenic'
The Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025 officially adds a significant chunk of the Myakka River to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This means extra protection and coordinated management for 34 miles of the river, stretching from the Manatee-Sarasota County line down to the Charlotte County line. (SEC. 3). The main goal? Keeping this Florida gem in good shape for both nature and people.
River Rehab: What the New Law Changes
The law breaks down the designated river sections into 'wild,' 'scenic,' and 'recreational' areas (SEC. 3), each with its own management focus, but all aimed at long-term preservation. Think of it like different levels of protection, tailored to each part of the river. For example, the 11.2-mile stretch between S.R. 72 and Laurel Road is designated as 'wild,' meaning it's getting the highest level of protection, while the 1.5-mile section from Border Road to just south of the I-75 Bridge is 'recreational,' acknowledging its existing use. The Secretary of the Interior is in charge, but they're required to work closely with the Myakka River Management Coordinating Council, which now includes a National Park Service rep (SEC. 5). They're also teaming up with Florida's Department of Environmental Protection, Sarasota County, and the cities of North Port and Venice through cooperative agreements (SEC. 4). This means a coordinated approach to things like water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreation access.
Hands-Off Approach: No Land Grabs
One crucial detail: the law explicitly prohibits the use of eminent domain (SEC. 4). This means the government can't force anyone to sell their land for this project. Any land acquisition can only happen through donations or if a landowner is willing to sell. This is a big deal for property owners along the river, ensuring their rights are protected. It's also worth noting that this designation doesn't turn the Myakka River into a National Park (SEC. 4). Existing land management practices by public and private landowners continue as before, guided by Florida Statute 258.501.
Real-World Ripple Effects
So, what does this mean for the average Floridian? If you're a kayaker, fisherman, or just someone who enjoys the Myakka's natural beauty, this law is good news. It means more resources and a coordinated effort to keep the river healthy. For folks in Sarasota County, North Port, and Venice, it could mean a boost in tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Act also authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to provide funding to help update and carry out the Myakka River Wild and Scenic Management Plan. (SEC. 4). This is a long-term commitment to preserving a valuable natural resource, and it's happening through a collaborative approach that respects both environmental needs and property rights.