It is clear that maintaining healthy, productive rivers provides recreational benefits, but there is also a significant

economic incentive in doing so, providing that other economic activities

are not adversely affected.

History & Backgroundof Oklahoma’s Scenic Rivers Act

Water quality problems first became an issue during the 1960’s:• National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act -- 1968.• Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Act -- 1970.• Clean Water Act -- 1972.• Creation of Oklahoma Scenic Rivers

Commission -- 1977.

Oklahoma Scenic River Areas

Barren Fork Creek, 1928

SH 10, Cherokee Co, near Eagle Bluff, 1928

Illinois River, south of Combs Ridge, 1928

Illinois River, south of Combs Ridge, 2012