The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System is a preservation program established by the U.S. Congress in 1968 to protect certain outstanding American rivers with exceptional natural, cultural, recreational, or scenic values. This system, managed by the National Park Service, aims to conserve these rivers and their surroundings for future generations while maintaining their free-flowing condition and providing opportunities for public enjoyment. The program initially identified 8 rivers and has since grown to encompass over 200 river segments across 40 states, totaling approximately 12,000 miles of protected waterways.