The administration announced a plan to repeal the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule to allow for more national forest development.
The administration announced a plan to repeal the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which currently prohibits logging, road building, and mining in undeveloped forests. The U.S. Forest Service is seeking to rescind the rule to hand power to local national forest managers, particularly to help them manage the surge in wildfires. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated that the move would allow for more flexibility in forest management. While the plan is open for public comment for 30 days, it has drawn criticism from environmental groups. Critics argue that the move puts nearly 45 million acres of pristine wilderness at risk of reckless development in the name of economic growth. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) stated that the administration is selling out public lands to corporate polluters. However, supporters of the move highlight the potential for economic benefits and improved management of public lands.