What legislation was passed in 1968 designed to protect rivers for their natural values?

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act was specifically created to protect certain rivers in the United States from development and to preserve their natural values. Enacted in 1968, this legislation aimed to maintain the free-flowing condition of designated rivers, safeguard their water quality, and protect the surrounding land from activities that could harm their ecological and recreational values. This act sets a blueprint for preserving river ecosystems, which are vital for wildlife habitat and human enjoyment. By designating rivers as "wild," "scenic," or "recreational," this law ensures that these waterways remain intact for future generations, highlighting the importance of natural landscapes in conservation efforts.

Other legislative acts mentioned focus on different environmental issues, such as water quality, species protection, and environmental assessment, which do not specifically target the preservation of river systems in the same way as the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.