Contact Congress about H.R. 2903: M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act

Dozens of river stretches in New Mexico would gain federal protection. New mining and energy leases would face limits, but valid current rights would remain. About 440 acres would also join Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

Modern Action explains what the legislation does, helps you choose whether to support, oppose, or ask for changes, and drafts a message tied to the bill, your stance, and the elected officials who can act on it.

M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act is a House bill committee Action. The latest recorded action: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Latest action on H.R. 2903: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects people who live, work, own land, or spend time near the covered Gila River stretches. Current rights would generally remain in place. New mining and energy projects on federal land would face tighter limits. Tribes, local governments, and the public would have a role in planning how the rivers are managed.

Why this matters: These river stretches do not now have the lasting protection this bill would provide. The new labels could limit future development and help protect clean water, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation. Current users would keep many existing rights, but new mining and energy options would shrink. The final effects would depend on later management plans and habitat projects.

Key provisions in H.R. 2903

• Many named parts of the Gila River and nearby creeks would gain federal protection. Each would be classed as wild, scenic, or recreational.
• New mining claims and new mineral or geothermal leases would be blocked on federal land within the protected borders. Most other ways of opening or selling that land would also be blocked, but valid current rights would remain.
• The responsible cabinet secretary would prepare official maps and legal descriptions for every protected stretch. The public could inspect them.
• Federal agencies would create a full river management plan. They must consult Tribal governments, New Mexico local governments, and the public.
• Current grazing permits and valid mineral rights would remain unless the holder agrees to a change. The same protection applies to water rights, diversion points, and water delivery systems.

How Modern Action helps you take action on H.R. 2903

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about H.R. 2903

What is H.R. 2903?

Dozens of river stretches in New Mexico would gain federal protection. New mining and energy leases would face limits, but valid current rights would remain. About 440 acres would also join Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

How do I support or oppose H.R. 2903?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about H.R. 2903?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

How does Modern Action help me act on H.R. 2903?

Modern Action gives you bill-specific context, lets you choose support, opposition, or changes, and drafts a message from your position and reasons.