Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission Approves Scenic Rivers NOI Amendments

Changes aim to expedite permitting process and clarify tree harvesting rules

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) has approved amendments to a Notice of Intent (NOI) for changes to the state's Scenic Rivers Program. The amendments are designed to streamline the permitting process, including establishing general permits, and provide clarity around the selective harvesting of trees within the 100-foot buffer of a Scenic River.

Why it matters

The Scenic Rivers Program protects Louisiana's most pristine waterways and the surrounding environments. These NOI amendments aim to balance environmental conservation with more efficient permitting for activities along these rivers, which are important natural resources for the state.

The details

The LWFC originally passed the NOI for Scenic Rivers Program changes during its July 2025 meeting. The amendments approved in February 2026 are intended to expedite the permitting process and clarify rules around the selective harvesting of trees within the 100-foot buffer of a Scenic River.

  • The LWFC approved the original NOI in July 2025.
  • The LWFC approved the amendments to the NOI in February 2026.
  • A public hearing on the amendments will be held on March 24, 2026 at 10 a.m. in Baton Rouge.

The players

Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC)

The state agency responsible for managing Louisiana's wildlife and fisheries resources, including the Scenic Rivers Program.

Amelia Wolfe

A contact person at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries for more information on the Scenic Rivers NOI amendments.

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What’s next

A public hearing on the Scenic Rivers NOI amendments will be held on March 24, 2026 at 10 a.m. in the Louisiana Room of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries headquarters in Baton Rouge.

The takeaway

These Scenic Rivers NOI amendments aim to balance environmental conservation with more efficient permitting processes, demonstrating Louisiana's commitment to protecting its most pristine waterways while also facilitating responsible use and development along these important natural resources.