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Last Friday, the U.S. Forest Service published its intent to roll back the 2001 Roadless Rule, marking the start of a 21-day public comment period.
The agency published a notice 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 in 2001 after years of work and record-breaking input from the public. It established lasting protection 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 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 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. All comments must be submitted by September 19.
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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.”
