Oklahoma Lawmakers Push to Protect Scenic Rivers from Out-of-State Water Diversion

Kiamichi River_KellyAdams

OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma lawmakers are ramping up efforts to protect two of the state’s most pristine waterways — the Kiamichi and Glover Rivers — from large-scale water diversion projects that could send billions of gallons south to Texas.

At the center of the fight is an interim legislative study led by State Senator David Bullard (R-Durant), who says out-of-state hydropower developers are eyeing southeastern Oklahoma’s river systems as a cheap, renewable source of water to generate electricity for Dallas–Fort Worth’s booming energy needs.

Legislative Proposal to Designate Scenic Rivers

Bullard has already filed legislation that would place the Kiamichi and Glover under Oklahoma’s Scenic Rivers Act, a designation that would bring additional state protections, limit certain industrial activities, and make large-scale water extraction far more difficult.

The Scenic Rivers designation currently protects waterways such as the Illinois River in northeastern Oklahoma — a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and tourism. If approved, the Kiamichi and Glover would join that list, potentially shielding them from diversion projects for decades.

Why the Rivers Matter

The Kiamichi and Glover Rivers are not only ecological treasures but also key economic drivers for rural communities. They support:

• Biodiversity, including rare freshwater mussels and migratory birds

• Recreation & tourism, drawing anglers, kayakers, and campers from across the region

• Local water supply for towns and agricultural producers

Environmental advocates warn that large-scale diversion could drain river flow, harm fish populations, reduce tourism dollars, and threaten downstream ecosystems.

The Texas Connection

Energy developers in Texas — particularly hydropower companies — are seeking long-term contracts for water rights in Oklahoma to feed electricity production for the Dallas metro’s growing population of over 7 million residents.

Critics argue that Oklahoma’s water should remain in-state to support local needs, particularly given recent drought conditions.

“This isn’t just about one river,” Bullard said. “This is about Oklahoma’s sovereignty over its natural resources and making sure we don’t give away what our communities depend on.”

Expert Testimony Raises Alarm

During the interim study, water resource experts, local officials, and conservation groups testified that once water rights are sold or leased across state lines, it’s nearly impossible to reclaim them. They pointed to past legal battles between Oklahoma and Texas over Red River water as cautionary examples.

Environmental scientists also highlighted that climate change is increasing drought risk in the region, making it even more critical to safeguard local water supplies.

What’s Next?

The Scenic Rivers bill is expected to be considered in the 2025 legislative session. If it passes, any significant water diversion projects from the Kiamichi and Glover would face strict environmental review and public input before proceeding.

Bullard says he anticipates strong support from rural lawmakers and constituents but warns that energy lobbyists could push back hard.