“most Tribal governments consulted oppose the rescission”
“about 18.2 million acres would become eligible for new permanent roads”
“Roadless Rule must remain intact”
What it names
Roadless areas
Rocky Mountain
The comment
Re: Docket FS-2025-0001 (RIN 0596-AD66) – Opposition to Rescission of the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule
I am writing to oppose the proposed rescission of the 2001 Roadless Rule.
Preserving the great outdoors is fundamental to our national identity. Generations before us set aside national forests for our enjoyment, stewardship, and protection. The proposed rescission threatens wildlife and water resources, and it abandons the conservation legacy of leaders such as President Theodore Roosevelt.
The Forest Service's own research underscores what is at stake for water. According to the Rocky Mountain Research Station, "forested watersheds supply drinking water for over 80 million Americans, making forests one of the nation's most important forms of natural infrastructure." The same research notes that these data "help identify where forest management can reduce risks and costs for downstream water users." Opening roadless areas to new road construction and timber harvest, which can affect water quality downstream, should not proceed without a clear accounting of those risks to drinking water supplies.
By USDA's own estimate, about 18.2 million acres would become eligible for new permanent roads where current forest plans allow them. USDA also reports that most Tribal governments consulted oppose the rescission.
To preserve these lands for future generations, the Roadless Rule must remain intact.
Source: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, research project on forest water supply, value, and future risks to U.S. water resources: https://research.fs.usda.gov/rmrs/projects/water-forests-supply-value-and-future-risks-us-water-resources