LUBBOCK, TX – Proposed changes to the federal Roadless Rule could expand access for wildfire response, maintenance and livestock management across millions of acres of western forestland.
Public Lands Council Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover says the U.S. Forest Service manages roughly 93 million acres used for grazing in the West. She says roadless restrictions adopted in 2001 have limited access across portions of those lands.
Glover says limited road access can affect fire crews, rescue operations, trail and tree maintenance, and ranchers needing access to fences and grazing infrastructure. PLC has submitted comments supporting changes to the current rule.
The debate also extends to wildfire risk. Glover says catastrophic wildfire remains one of the largest threats facing western federal, state and private lands and can damage soils, vegetation and long-term rangeland productivity.
PLC argues that changing roadless restrictions should be paired with active land management to improve forest health, access and multiple-use opportunities.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Roadless Rule changes could improve access for grazing and wildfire management if agencies pair regulatory changes with active land stewardship.