Scenic Rivers A classification under the national Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to include those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments, with shorelines or watersheds still largely primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. The following represents restrictions applying to such designated rivers: (1) Timber Production – A wide range of silvicultural practices could be allowed if such practices are carried on so that there is no substantial adverse effect on the river and its immediate environment. The river area should be maintained in its near natural environment. Timber outside the boundary but within the visual scene area should be managed and harvested in a way that provides special emphasis on visual quality. (2) Water Supply – All water supply dams and major diversions are prohibited. (3) Hydroelectric Power – No development of hydroelectric power facilities would be allowed. (4) Flood Control – Flood control dams and levees would be prohibited. (5) Mining – Subject to regulations (i.e., 36 CFR 228) that the Secretaries of Agricultural and Interior may prescribe to protect the values of rivers included in the national system. New mining claims and mineral leases could be allowed and existing operations allowed to continue. However, mineral activity must be conducted in a way that minimizes surface disturbances, sedimentation and pollution, and visual impairment. (6) Road Construction – Roads may occasionally bridge the river area and short stretches of conspicuous or longer stretches on inconspicuous and well screened roads or screened railroads could be allowed. Consideration will be given to the type of use for which roads are constructed and the type of use that will occur in the river area. (7) Agriculture – A wider range of agricultural uses is permitted to the extent currently practices. Row crops are not considered as an intrusion of the ‘largely primitive” nature of scenic corridors if there is not a substantial adverse effect on the natural-like appearance of the river area. (8) Recreational Development – Larger scale public use facilities, such as moderate size campgrounds, public information centers, and administrative headquarters are allowed if such structures are screened from the river. Modest and unobtrusive marinas also can be allowed. (9) Structures – Any concentrations of habitations are limited to relatively short reaches of the river corridor. New structures that would have a direct and adverse effect on river values would not be allowed. (10) Utilities – New transmission lines, gas lines, water lines, etc., are discouraged. Where no reasonable alternative exists, additional or new facilities should be restricted to existing right-of-way. Where new rights-of-ways are indicated, the scenic, recreation, and fish and wildlife values must be evaluated in the selection of the site. (11) Motorized Travel – Motorized travel on land or water may be permitted, prohibited or restricted to protect the river values. Also see Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, Wild Rivers, and Recreational Rivers.