News
Renewal of Roadless Directive Conserves Backcountry Fish and Wildlife Habitat
On May 28, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reaffirmed its support of backcountry conservation by renewing a directive that requires secretarial-level review of road-building and timber-cutting projects in national forest roadless areas. Originally issued in 2009, the directive would have expired this spring.
“The future of public-lands hunting and fishing depends on roadless policy that safeguards fish and wildlife habitat. The 2001 roadless rule is the strongest option for conserving our backcountry legacy and outdoor traditions,” said Joel Webster, associate director of campaigns for the TRCP Center for Western Lands. “American sportsmen appreciate Secretary Vilsack’s actions, and we encourage the Department of Agriculture to adhere to the Roadless Area Conservation Rule when considering projects in roadless areas.”
The administration has established a record of support for national roadless conservation, and this decision should provide consistency as uncertainty surrounding the future of the 2001 rule is determined. The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals is expected to render a decision on the rule as early as this summer.
“The USDA’s commitment to roadless conservation policies underscores the federal government’s support of our public-lands hunting and fishing heritage,” said Geoff Mullins, director of policy initiatives and communications for the TRCP. “Sportsmen appreciate the department’s ongoing efforts on behalf of our backcountry fish and wildlife habitat and look forward to continuing to work to uphold this irreplaceable outdoor legacy.”
Learn more about the TRCP’s work in support of roadless area conservation.