Oregon Second District Congressman Cliff Bentz reiterated his opposition to the Rivers Democracy Act that would add 4,700 miles of rivers in the state to the “Wild and Scenic” designation.  Bentz said on the House floor his most dire concern was the level of bureaucracy the bill would place on areas already at risk of wildfire, and delay treatment activities needed now.  Bentz also felt there was inadequate local input in the bill’s creation, and a lack of protections for sustainable use of the land surrounding the watersheds.  Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley introduced the bill last year.  They say it would expand access to jobs-creating recreation statewide, reduce wildfire risks, and protect existing property, grazing and irrigation rights.