Federal agencies would map boat ramps, fishing rules on one public website

What does this do?

S 2637 directs the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Forest Service, and Bureau of Reclamation to create digital maps of federal waterway access information within five years. The maps would show open boat ramps, fishing restrictions, speed limits, and permitted watercraft types. Fishing restriction data must be updated in real time; all other access information must be updated at least twice a year.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects anyone who uses federal waterways for outdoor recreation, including boaters, kayakers, anglers, and swimmers. Agencies could partner with technology companies, states, tribes, and nonprofits to carry out the work.

Why does it matter?

Currently, access rules and information are spread across multiple agencies and can be difficult for the public to locate. Consolidating this information online means people can check waterway rules, open areas, and launch sites before they go, though the bill does not change any existing rules or open new areas to recreation.

Where does it stand?