Proposed Forest Planning Rule Unveiled

The USDA Forest Service unveiled its proposed forest planning rule late last week which would establish a new science-based framework for national forest land management.

"This proposed rule is going to provide a framework for land management planning to restore the health and resilience of ecosystems and watersheds, to protect wildlife and respond to changing climate as well as connecting people more closely to our forested lands."

Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack, says the goal is to keep common species common and to contribute to the recovery of threatened and endangered species.

"A critical component to proper management is that there be a planning rule that can be utilized and provide a roadmap for how the over 150 forests that we have in our national forest service can, in fact, be managed properly to address both the current needs of the system as well as the future needs."

Vilsack says its also about doing the work necessary to support multiple uses.

The 90 day comment period for the proposed forest planning rule ends May 16th.