Look West: Public lands and energy news from the Center for Western Priorities


** Roadless Rule comment period now open
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Tuesday, September 2, 2025
North Crandall Trail; Shoshone National Forest. Joan Amero, Flickr ([link removed])

Last Friday, the U.S. Forest Service published its intent ([link removed]) to roll back the 2001 Roadless Rule, marking the start of a 21-day public comment period.

The agency published a notice ([link removed]) in the federal register seeking public comment on its intention to develop an environmental impact statement for the proposed rescission of the rule, which currently protects almost 60 million acres of national forest land.

The Roadless Rule was enacted by the Clinton administration ([link removed]) in 2001 after years of work and record-breaking input from the public. It established lasting protection ([link removed]) for specified wilderness areas within national forests by prohibiting road construction and logging, which can destroy habitats, increase erosion, and worsen sediment pollution in drinking water, among other impacts.

The USFS describes the move as a way to better manage wildfires, even though the rule already allows ([link removed].) for fire suppression and roadbuilding to prevent wildfires. “When you build more roads into roadless [areas], the odds of fires being started are much higher,” said ([link removed]) Wild Montana Spokesman Alex Blackmer. “Making that tradeoff without meaningfully affecting our ability to manage forests will make the problem worse.”

Public comments can be submitted through the Federal Register ([link removed]) . All comments must be submitted by September 19.


** Quick hits
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Trump shrank staffing of national parks. See how many are struggling

New York Times ([link removed])

Opinion: To solve the wildfire crisis, we have to let the myth of ‘the wild’ die

Los Angeles Times ([link removed])

Border Patrol arrested firefighters as they were battling a wildfire

Washington Post ([link removed])

Column: Labor Day at half staff

More Than Just Parks ([link removed])

Bison eradication stripped western grasslands of nutrients, Yellowstone research shows

WyoFile ([link removed])

Even at Yosemite, 'the shadow of Donald Trump is over everything'

Politico ([link removed])

Climate.gov will re-launch under new URL thanks to a secret team of web ninjas

CNN ([link removed])

Ten years after a mine spill turned a Colorado river yellow, basin awaits wider cleanup

Denver Post ([link removed])


** Quote of the day
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” From alpine peaks to desert canyons, dense forests to wide-open plains, national parks to local fishing holes — these lands represent freedom, access, and a shared American heritage. They drive tourism, support jobs, and give every American a place to find peace outdoors.”

—Conor Callahan, producer of We the Public, Idaho Capital Sun ([link removed])


** Picture This
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@nationalparkservice ([link removed])
“I’m going on an adventure!” - Bilbo Baggins.

National parks offer a wide range of hiking trails to accommodate different skills and capabilities. You won’t miss out on the spectacular views, wildlife sightings, and connection with nature (are those trees talking?) by choosing an easier trail for your adventure. Always consider what type of trail is best for you.
@grandcanyonnps ([link removed])

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