Overview

• The 2001 rule shields about 58 million acres of national forest that could be opened to new roads, logging, and development if repealed.
• USDA says rescission would let local managers expand timber work and improve wildfire response through better access.
• Four former Forest Service chiefs argued the rule has worked and already permits hazardous-fuel reduction, grazing, motorized recreation, energy leasing, and mining.
• Nearly 160,000 public comments were submitted as of Thursday, with the initial comment window ending Friday.
• After reviewing input, the agency plans an environmental impact analysis and aims to publish a draft plan by March 2026 and a final decision by the end of 2026.