The rationale for rescission does not hold up. The Roadless Rule already allows hazardous fuels reduction and other management needed to address wildfire risk. Removing it is not necessary for forest health. Instead, it would open about 45 million acres to road building and commercial logging. The Forest Service already struggles to maintain its existing road network. Adding more roads means more erosion, degraded water quality in streams that supply drinking water, and fragmented habitat for fish and wildlife.
The public has spoken clearly. During the 2025 comment period, the agency acknowledged that about 99 percent of comments opposed rescission. A decision this significant deserves to reflect that consensus. It should not reverse 25 years of bipartisan protection under a shortened process with no public meetings.
Please withdraw this proposal and keep the Roadless Rule in place, including for the roadless areas of the Cherokee National Forest, for my family and future generations.
Sincerely,
J.R. Ward
Townsend, TN