(a)
(1) It is unlawful to remove any tree growing below the ordinary high watermark, as defined in § 15-22-202, on any river or stream in this state that has been designated as a navigable river or stream by a legislative act.
(2) However, an authorized representative of the United States Government or of this state that is charged with the responsibility of maintaining navigation and flood control on navigable rivers and streams may remove a tree growing below the ordinary high watermark of a navigable river or stream as the authorized representative deems necessary to properly carry out the authorized representative's duties.
(b) Any person violating a provision of this section is guilty of a violation and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).