USDA Lifts Forest Road Ban for Fire Safety

New Rule Aims to Reduce Wildfire Risk and Boost Timber Jobs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), under Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, has repealed the 2001 Roadless Rule, unlocking 58.5 million acres of National Forest land for better management. The decision supports wildfire prevention and economic growth, particularly in states with large forest areas.

The rule had limited road construction and timber harvesting in roadless areas, impacting over 30% of national forest lands.

This created challenges for wildfire control and sustainable forestry. In Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, 92% of the land was restricted, while Utah and Montana saw similar limits.

States like Utah reported a 25% loss in forestry-related economic potential due to the rule. The USDA now plans to allow local forest managers to make land-use decisions based on community needs and wildfire risk.

“Once again, President Trump is removing absurd obstacles to common sense management of our natural resources by rescinding the overly restrictive roadless rule,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.

The repeal is part of Executive Order 14192, focused on reducing federal regulations. It also returns authority to local land managers, enabling faster responses to wildfire threats and forest health issues.

About 28 million acres of these forests are in high or very high wildfire risk zones. With more flexible policies, forest agencies can take action to prevent fires, protect people, and support sustainable industries like timber production.

The move is expected to benefit rural communities and balance environmental stewardship with economic opportunity across the country.