Sangre de Cristo Chapter has submitted comments to the Federal Register opposing the USDA’s proposed cancellation of the 2001 Roadless Rule, which has effectively limited damage to large parts of our National Forests and has had wide bipartisan support in spite of opposition by timber interests and other powerful lobbyists. See our comments here.
The latest challenge to the Roadless Rule and the reason for this comment period (which is due to close on Sept. 19) is the recent announcement by U.S Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins of intent to entirely rescind the Roadless Rule. The stated reason is to remove “burdeonsome” regulations that “stifle economic growth.” Wildfire suppression is also cited, although ironically most wildfires occur near roads. An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) must be prepared by the Department of Agriculture to enact this change, and the EIS must consider public comments.
To learn more about the Roadless Rule, read here.
To submit comments to the Federal Register, go here.