Trump admin moves to allow logging and construction in national forests
Summary
The Trump administration is working to repeal the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which has protected nearly 45 million acres of national forests from road building and logging. Officials say removing the rule will help improve forest health and reduce wildfire risks by allowing more local control over land management.Key Facts
- The Roadless Rule was created in 2001 to stop road construction and timber harvesting on 45 million acres of national forests.
- The Trump administration argues the rule creates problems for forest management and wildfire prevention.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said forests need active management to prevent wildfires and insect damage.
- The USDA filed a proposal to repeal the rule and an environmental report for public review.
- Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz said many roadless areas have high wildfire risks and limited treatments so far.
- Repealing the rule would allow local forest managers to decide on development projects, but does not automatically approve roads or logging.
- Environmental groups warn the repeal could harm wildlife habitats, water quality, and old-growth forests.
- Opponents also emphasize roadless areas' value to communities and the environment, including climate regulation.
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