Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission meets for final time

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. (AP) – The Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission met for the last time Tuesday after a newly passed state law combines the entity with the Grand River Dam Authority.

The commission has been a state agency for nearly 40 years and has focused on protecting, enhancing and preserving the Illinois River and its tributaries. The law passed this legislative session disbands the commission on July 1.

Ed Fite, who has served as the commission’s administrator since 1983, told lawmakers earlier this year that the best way to save the organization’s mission would be to disband and reorganize it under the authority.

The Tahlequah Daily Press reports (http://bit.ly/28MFlI6 ) that the Grand River Dam Authority will hire three full-time and 15-part-time officers to assist during summer holidays and weekends on the Illinois River.