Why it matters
An invisible fence for America’s last wild forests
Think of the Roadless Rule as an invisible fence around America’s last unbroken forests. For nearly 25 years it has kept bulldozers, chainsaws, and asphalt out of places where the only paths are carved by rivers and wildlife. These protections safeguard old growth, clean water, and connected habitat that has stood for centuries.
- Keeps new roads out of intact habitat so wildlife can move, feed, and breed.
- Protects headwaters that supply drinking water to downstream communities.
- Shields old growth stands that store carbon and anchor biodiversity.
Why comment
Short answer: every comment strengthens the legal record. When courts review an agency action, they look for evidence the agency ignored facts, dismissed impacts, or failed to consider alternatives. Robust comments make stronger lawsuits and better outcomes.
- Be specific about why roadless lands matter to you. Water, wildlife, recreation, cultural sites, old growth.
- Explain personal harm if protections are removed. Direct loss of place or health effects from dust, smoke, runoff.
- Point to consequences. Roads invite erosion, poaching, invasive species, and higher fire risk.
- Call out contradictions, like promising conservation while clearing the way for bulldozers.
- Use your own words. Identical form letters are easy to discount. Real testimony carries weight.
How to comment
- Open the official form at Regulations.gov.
- Say who you are and the place you know. Be precise and personal.
- Ask to keep new roads out of inventoried roadless areas. Then submit.
Contact your representatives
Ask them to keep roads out of roadless areas and oppose rescinding the rule.
Support independent public lands reporting
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