US Forest Service proposes lifting 2001 roadless rule across 10 western states
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The U.S. Forest Service has proposed lifting the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, opening millions of hectares of national forest in 10 western states to road construction and logging. The proposal would remove protections that have been in place for about 25 years. The public comment period runs through September 21, 2026.
Key Facts
- The proposal would affect more than 95% of the roadless areas in 10 western states, including Alaska, California, and Montana.
- Colorado and Idaho are excluded from the plan due to their own regulations.
- The public comment period ends on September 21, 2026.
- The Roadless Area Conservation Rule was enacted in 2001 under President Bill Clinton.
The Proposed Change
The U.S. Forest Service has proposed lifting the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which restricts road construction and related activities in certain natural areas within the national forest system. The change would affect more than 95% of the roadless areas in 10 western states, including Alaska, California, and Montana. Colorado and Idaho are excluded from the plan because they have their own regulations. The rule was enacted in 2001 under President Bill Clinton and has been in place for about 25 years.
Agency Rationale
The Forest Service argues that the change is necessary for more effective forest management. Officials say current restrictions make it difficult to thin trees and carry out other forestry work in areas with high fire risk. Removing the rule would give local forest managers more flexibility.
Public Comment Period
The U.S. government has posted the official draft for approval and opened a formal comment period. The public can submit comments until September 21, 2026. After that date, feedback will be reviewed and a final decision will be made.
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US Forest Service proposes lifting 2001 roadless rule across 10 western states
