Michigan and The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System

Americorps • July 5, 2023

In 1968, Congress passed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act establishing the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System (NWSRS) to preserve free-flowing rivers for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act protects more than 13,400 miles of rivers and streams in the U.S. The Forest Service is involved in managing over 5,000 of those wild and scenic rivers miles.

What designates a wild and science river though? Well, they have remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic or other similar values that led our government to add these waterways to the NWSRS. While some of these rivers are closed to recreational activities, many of them are open to the public.

In Michigan, there are currently 16 rivers that are included in the NWSRS. The Forest Service works with the public to ensure that the free-flowing conditions, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values of these rivers are protected from overuse, instream developments, and other impacts that do not enhance these values.

One of these rivers is the Manistee River, which has a total of 26 miles of recreation that we can use for public enjoyment. MUCC’s On the Ground program has collaborated with Steelhead Manifesto for seven years to host volunteer efforts to keep the Manistee clean. Join us this year as well to help keep trash out of our historic rivers.

If you are interested, please click HERE. Hope to see you there!

Recent Posts

June 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • June 12, 2025
The Natural Resources Commission met today in Bay City. There were no orders for information or action on the agenda. The big news was the commission brought back up the order to reinstate the year-round coyote season, and a vote will happen in August to satisfy posting and notice requirements. MUCC created the Coyote Coalition to put pressure on the NRC, and with today’s inaction, we know that it’s working. With the continued support of the coalition, we will continue fighting to protect proposal G. Consider joining the Coyote Coalition , and let the commission know that inaction is not acceptable, and to follow their legal charge and responsibility. Chair Becky Humphries announced new committee memberships. Wildlife Committee will be chaired by Commissioner John Walters, Governance, Finance and Policy will be chaired by Chair Humphries, Fisheries will be chaired by Commissioner Dave Anthony. There were no other orders for information or action. The next meeting returns to Lansing on July 10.

Conservation Cohort: Training Young Conservationists

By Olivia Triltsch • June 12, 2025
Last week on June 3rd and June 4th, Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) hosted a two-day training for young professionals.

PlayCleanGo Awareness Week: Taking Action on Invasive Species

By Katelyn Helsel • June 11, 2025
This week marks the annual PlayCleanGo Awareness Week , taking place from June 7-14. Hosted by the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA), this week encourages outdoor enthusiasts to help stop the spread of invasive species through simple actions. This year’s theme, “Partnering Together to Protect Our Favorite Places”, focuses on the importance of collaboration with Invasives Canada and CONABIO to illustrate how actions can create meaningful change across North America.
More Posts