West Virginia Senate Bill SB996

West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/26
• Refer: 2/19/26
• Refer: 2/25/26

Caption

Creating Jennings Randolph Lake State Park and Teter Creek Lake State Park

Impact

The establishment of Jennings Randolph Lake and Teter Creek Lake as state parks is seen as a pivotal maneuver in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable economic growth in their respective regions. By integrating these parks into the state park system, West Virginia solidifies its commitment to preserving natural resources while simultaneously enhancing recreational opportunities. Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Division of Natural Resources to form cooperative agreements with federal and local entities, facilitating collaborative efforts for the parks' growth and development.

Summary

Senate Bill 996 aims to create two new state parks in West Virginia: Jennings Randolph Lake State Park and Teter Creek Lake State Park. The bill identifies these areas as significant recreational and environmental resources, affirming their potential to attract tourism and enhance outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The bill includes provisions for the administration and management of these parks by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, which will oversee operations, maintenance, and improvements to the park facilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB996 appears to be largely positive, with proponents emphasizing the benefits of increased tourism and the preservation of natural landscapes in West Virginia. Advocates herald the parks as vital assets that can foster local economies and encourage outdoor recreation, pointing to their ecological importance. Though there is limited contention observed, some concerns may arise regarding funding allocations and the effective management of the new parks.

Contention

One notable point of contention may involve the jurisdictional implications for the land associated with these parks. The bill clarifies that federal authority over Jennings Randolph Lake and its surrounding lands remains unimpeded, which might allay some apprehensions about federal-state interactions. However, discussions on the allocation of resources and potential local governance issues could surface as these parks are developed and integrated into the community.