Trump administration moves to end rule protecting swaths of forest land

The Trump administration, through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has proposed rescinding the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule. This rule currently prohibits road construction and logging on approximately 45 million acres of national forest land. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins stated the move aims to reduce wildfire risk by giving local managers more control over forest treatments. Proponents argue that building roads will improve firefighter access and forest health. The article notes that these areas are not entirely without roads, with thousands of miles of existing roads present.

The Trump administration, through the U.S. Forest Service, is moving to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule, which prohibits logging, road construction, and other development on approximately 59 million acres of national forest land. The administration argues the rule is a barrier to improving forest health and reducing wildfire risks, stating it frustrates land managers. Environmental groups, however, oppose the move, warning of detrimental effects on old-growth forests, wildlife, and water supplies, and cite concerns for areas like Alaska's Tongass National Forest. The Forest Service is seeking public comment on the proposal and a draft environmental impact statement, with a deadline of September 21.