This bill designates 34 miles of the Myakka River in Sarasota County, Florida as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The designated segments are divided into different classifications—wild, scenic, and recreational—to reflect the varying character of different stretches of the river. The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to work with the existing Myakka River Management Coordinating Council, which includes state and local agencies, landowners, agricultural interests, and environmental organizations, to manage and protect the river in partnership rather than through direct federal control. Importantly, the law prohibits the federal government from using condemnation to acquire land and limits land purchases to voluntary donations or willing seller transactions. The bill is supported by Florida state law, local comprehensive planning efforts in Sarasota County and its cities, and broad public backing for the designation.
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