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