Bullard Interim Study Explores Protecting Scenic Rivers in Southeast Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, held an interim study Tuesday at the state Capitol to discuss strategies to protect pristine waterways in southeast Oklahoma and critical water supplies that drive economic prosperity across the state.

His interim study before the Senate Agriculture and Wildlife Committee examined the history and impact of the state’s Scenic Rivers Act. Presenters also recommended expanding the act to include additional streams, such as the Kiamichi and Glover rivers, to protect the waterways from hydropower plants, dams and other disruptive developments that could deplete the state’s valuable water resources.

“Southeast Oklahoma is blessed with an abundance of pristine, free-flowing rivers that fuel local economies and support tourism and recreation,” Senator Bullard said. “We have a responsibility to protect these scenic waterways, but if we don’t take action, others will decide their future for us. I look forward to continuing to work with water experts and community leaders to safeguard Oklahoma’s natural resources and preserve these rivers for generations to come.”

Study participants included Bill Redman, Secretary and Treasurer of the Kiamichi River Legacy Alliance; Grand River Dam Authority Water Quality Manager Ed Fite; Charlette Hearne, founder and former president of Oklahomans for Responsible Water Policy and Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation Fisheries Chief Kenneth Cunningham and Fisheries Biologist Brandon Brown.

Bullard hosted the study after introducing legislation this year to designate the Kiamichi and Glover rivers as scenic rivers. Bullard’s Senate Bill 1010 is still eligible to be heard when the Legislature reconvenes in February.

The senator said he plans to keep the conversation going about expanding the Scenic Rivers Act to include southeast Oklahoma waterways. He plans to hold an informal meeting on Aug. 27 at the state Capitol for interested stakeholders to discuss the issue and ask questions. Interested parties can contact his office for more information.

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For more information, contact: Sen. David Bullard at (405) 521-5586 or David.Bullard@oksenate.gov