Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced plans to rescind the 2001 “Roadless Rule,” which restricts logging and road-building on nearly 59 million acres of U.S. Forest Service land.
Speaking to the Western Governors Association, Rollins argued that the rule increases wildfire risks, harms the U.S. timber industry, and limits forest management and public access. The rollback will begin with a formal notice in the coming weeks and is linked to broader efforts, including a new endangered species committee.
The decision has been met with sharp criticism from environmental groups and Native American tribes, who warn it could lead to widespread deforestation and environmental degradation. Meanwhile, supporters praise the decision as a return to “common-sense” forest management that will create jobs and improve wildfire response. The policy shift is expected to spark significant legal challenges and public debate.
Photo Credit: USDA Website
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