TCA pushes national designation for Neches

BEAUMONT (AP) - A state conservation group is pushing for the Neches River to receive a special federal designation that would shield the East Texas waterway from dam or channel projects.

The Texas Conservation Alliance launched an initiative to have the Neches recognized as a National Scenic River. The group says the designation would protect the river yet not restrict commerce and industry stemming from it, the Beaumont Enterprise reported.

City of Dallas and state water planners have looked to the Neches for a reservoir they say will be needed in North Texas by mid-century.

Conservationists say the river and its natural areas have increasingly become tourist destinations that need to be protected.

TCA leaders think the Neches River's beauty, diverse flora and fauna and historic significance would help it qualify for the designation.

Before the Neches can receive the designation, Congress must authorize a study of the river's eligibility and suitability under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. If the study recommends it be a classified as a National Scenic River, Congress would have to pass a bill to make the designation official.