House Subcommittee Discusses USFS Planning Rule and Recreational Use
This week, the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forest and Public Lands held an oversight hearing to discuss on the regulatory barriers to maximizing the recreational use of U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands. The focal point of the hearing was the proposed National Forest System Land Management Planning Rule, released in February, and how the USFS could better balance the uses of its land.
In his opening statement, Subcommittee Chairman Rob Bishop (R-Utah) expressed concerns that input from the public on the Planning Rule would fall on deaf ears, particularly with respect to how the limitations placed on the management of USFS lands will affect recreational use. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell verified that the USFS received more than 300,000 comments on the draft Rule. He stated that the final Rule, scheduled for release in early 2012, will include changes based on those comments, including the concerns about multiple use. Tidwell went on to say that they are “considering the inclusion of requirements in the new rule to contribute to social and economic sustainability,” and that their intent is to create a more efficient and effective planning process.
Other panelists, including representatives from industry, recreation, and environmental interests discussed the balance between preserving the forests and the need to maintain and encourage recreational use; thereby allowing people to appreciate the natural habitats that the USFS is working to preserve. Panelist also stressed the effects of the draft Rule on local communities, and how rural economies can benefit from properly managed land that is open for recreational use.
The archived video of the hearing, along with transcripts of all testimony, are on the Subcommittee’s website:
For more information, please contact Staci Heaton at sheaton@rcrcnet.org