This story is produced by Montana Free Press/Mountain Journal in collaboration with Grist as part of the Report for America Local News Initiative.
A proposal by the Trump administration targets the 25-year-old Roadless Rule, which restricts road construction and logging on 45 million acres of national forest, announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Agriculture, stated in a press release that the rule has resulted in forests susceptible to wildfires due to dense growth. Rescinding the rule aims to enhance local decision-making over federal guidelines.
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte praised the move, emphasizing it enables states like Montana to better manage federal lands with community interests. However, researchers contest these claims, showing wildfire ignitions are least frequent in roadless and wilderness areas. They noted that most ignitions occur near roads, with human activity responsible for almost 85% of wildfires.
The Roadless Rule safeguards vast landscapes, protecting 6 million acres in Montana and nearly 10 million acres in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Scott Christensen from the Greater Yellowstone Coalition highlighted the rule’s importance for wildlife habitats, warning that rescinding it endangers species like elk and grizzly bears, which avoid roads. Wildlife experts warn of negative impacts on habitats, including bull trout, and highlight the rule’s role in conserving 57% of species of concern.
Public support for the Roadless Rule is strong, with 99% of over 625,000 public comments favoring its retention. Surveys, including a Pew survey, show 76% of likely voters nationwide back the rule, and a University of Montana poll reflected broad bipartisan support. Jenny Harbine of Earthjustice criticized the proposal as part of anti-public lands policies, vowing legal action if implemented. The proposal and draft Environmental Impact Statement will be published on Aug. 20, with public comments accepted until Sept. 21.
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