There are more than 78,000 miles of rivers and streams in Oklahoma. But 200 of those miles are unique — Oklahoma’s scenic rivers.
They are some of the state’s most environmentally sensitive waterways, and the state grants them special protections. The agency charged with overseeing the rivers has been a victim of state budget cuts and is on the verge of disbanding.
But the death of the Scenic Rivers Commission might be the best way to preserve the special protections that keep the rivers clean. The Grand River Dam Authority says it will take on the Commission’s responsibilities, but the future remains uncertain.
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