Booker, Kim, Conaway, Van Drew Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Protect New Jersey’s Mullica River

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ), together with U.S. Representatives Herb Conaway Jr. (D-NJ-3) and Jeff Van Drew (D-NJ-2), introduced the Mullica River Watershed Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2026. This bipartisan legislation would direct the National Park Service to study the Mullica River for potential inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System-an important step toward strengthening the long-term conservation of one of New Jersey's most ecologically significant waterways.

Stretching more than 55 miles across Camden, Atlantic, Ocean, and Burlington Counties, the Mullica River is widely regarded as one of the region's most pristine river systems. Its watershed supports exceptional biodiversity and provides critical habitat for wildlife, including bald eagles.

"The Mullica River is one of New Jersey's most valuable natural resources, providing clean drinking water, supporting fisheries and wildlife habitat, and sustaining some of the most important ecosystems in the Mid-Atlantic," said Senator Booker. "This legislation is critical to strengthening protections for the Mullica River and preserving the environmental and economic benefits it provides to communities across our state."

"The Mullica River was right down the road from me growing up in South Jersey - playing a part in so many New Jerseyans' memories who go to enjoy the water and the scenery. It's our responsibility to do all we can to protect the natural resources that give our state so much. I'm grateful to this bipartisan group for coming together to do just that," said Senator Kim.

"The Mullica River has a very special place in my heart, because it's where my father and I would spend our weekends fishing growing up,"said Congressman Conaway. "Being able to protect this important natural resource in our state is extremely important to me. Its conservation would not only save the wildlife that call it home, but it would also ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy clean water, healthy ecosystems, and outdoor recreation."

"The Mullica River is one of the most beautiful and important natural resources in our region, supporting wildlife, outdoor recreation, tourism, and local communities," said Congressman Van Drew. "This river is a treasure, and we have a responsibility to make sure it is protected for future generations. This bill begins the process of studying the river for potential Wild and Scenic designation so we can ensure it remains healthy and protected for years to come. I am proud to be part of this effort to help preserve the Garden State's natural beauty."

Created by Congress in 1968, the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System protects the nation's most outstanding free-flowing rivers. This bill would not immediately designate the Mullica River; instead, it would launch a formal study process-grounded in scientific analysis, community engagement, and environmental review-to determine whether the river meets the criteria for future designation.

Read the full text of the bill here.