§539g Kings River Special Management Area

Summary

Creates the Kings River Special Management Area inside the Sierra and Sequoia National Forests to give the public outdoor recreation, protect natural, archaeological, and scenic features, and manage fish and wildlife. The Secretary of Agriculture runs the area through the Sierra National Forest. The area follows the boundary on the map titled "Boundary Map, Kings River Special Management Area," dated April 1987, which is on file with the Forest Service. The Secretary may make minor boundary changes. The Secretary must run the area under National Forest rules, but this law controls if there is a conflict. Grazing stays allowed as before. Timber cutting is allowed only to fight fire, insects, or disease or to protect scenery or historic things. Lands are withdrawn from mining claims, mineral leasing, and the Geothermal Steam Act, except for valid existing rights. Hunting and fishing are allowed under Federal and State law, but the Secretary can set closed zones or seasons after consulting the State. A management plan must be published within three years after November 3, 1987, including vegetation work to help wildlife, trails (including from Garlic Creek to Little Tehipite Valley), and the same off‑road vehicle access allowed before November 3, 1987. Private or State owners must be given needed access to their lands, subject to rules that protect the area. No Federal land may be used to build a dam or diversion in the area without Congress’s specific approval. The Kings River segment from elevation 1,595 feet down to 990 feet is treated under section 1278(a) as if designated, and the Kings River Conservation District may study the area.