The U.S. Forest Service published new rules today intended to make environmental reviews of proposed projects cheaper and more efficient. But some environmental groups object to the changes. KNAU’s Melissa Sevigny reports.
The new rules apply to the National Environmental Policy Act (or NEPA), which requires federal agencies to conduct environmental reviews of proposed actions. There is now a process for determining if a previously completed NEPA analysis can cover a new proposed action. There are also six new categories that don’t have to undergo a detailed analysis. These include renewing special use permits, repairing roads and buildings, modifying recreation sites, and restoration activities—including timber harvesting—on up to 2800 acres.
The U.S. Forest Service says it is “imperative” to make changes that improve efficiency and save money, because of the rising costs of fighting wildfires. But some environmental groups say the rules weaken ecosystem protections, and many tribes expressed concerns about fewer opportunities for consultation.
A public comment period garnered more than one hundred thousand responses for and against the new regulations.
