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Climate Brief:US Forest Service seeks public comment over rescinding roadless rule by Sept.19 [1]

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Date: 2025-09-15

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US Forest Service seeks public comment over rescinding roadless rule: What to know



People can comment on the rule until Sept. 19 by going to:



www.regulations.gov/... The roadless rule was established in 2001 to keep Western national forests accessible and protect them from logging and road building. The rule applies to 44.7 million acres in 10 Western states, including Oregon and Washington.

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The Roadless Rule

Proponents argue it protects wildlife, safeguards water quality, and supports local economies through recreation and tourism. Opponents claim it hinders forest management, economic development, and efforts to reduce wildfire risk.

The policy itself is not static. In June and August 2025, the USDA announced its intent to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, removing protections for 44.7 million acres across the National Forest System. As of September 15, 2025, a public comment period on this proposed rescission is underway.

Arguments for the roadless rule

Protection for wildlife: Roadless areas provide crucial habitat for thousands of wildlife species, including grizzly bears, gray wolves, and salmon. Keeping these areas free from fragmentation allows species to maintain migration corridors and access necessary resources.

Clean drinking water: National forests are a significant source of the country's municipal water supply. The rule protects many headwaters from road construction, which helps prevent erosion and preserves the natural filtration provided by intact forests.

Economic benefits from recreation: The outdoor recreation economy, valued at $1.2 trillion, relies on the undisturbed landscapes protected by the rule. These areas offer opportunities for hunting, hiking, climbing, and other activities that support local communities through tourism.

Reduced wildfire risk: Contrary to claims that the rule prevents fire management, research suggests that roads actually increase wildfire risk. The vast majority of wildfires are human-caused, and studies show that fires are more likely to start in areas with roads than in roadless tracts.

Cost savings for taxpayers: The U.S. Forest Service has a multi-billion dollar backlog in maintenance for its existing road network. Building more roads in backcountry forests would create a greater financial burden for taxpayers.

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