Last Opportunity to Comment on Potential Changes to Forest Protections in North Carolina
The public has until Tuesday night to express opinions on a proposal from the Trump administration that could open approximately 144,000 acres of protected forests in North Carolina to logging and other forms of development.
Implemented in 2001, the Roadless Rule restricts road construction and timber harvesting in designated federal forests. The rule was initially established to safeguard water resources, hinder invasive species, and maintain biodiversity.
Under President Trump’s directive to boost domestic timber production, the U.S. Forest Service is considering increased logging activities. Environmentalists express concerns that revoking the rule could endanger North Carolina’s diminishing old-growth forests, which comprise about 18% of the state’s national forests, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report. Notable areas include the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near the Tennessee border.
Joanne Deyo, President of the Lake James Environmental Association, opposes the repeal, noting the impact on the Blue Ridge Parkway’s scenic views and increased wildfire risk. “That harm will ripple through our western NC economies,” she stated.
Sam Evans, Senior Attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, warns of negative effects on the state’s outdoor recreation industry, highlighting the billion-dollar trout fishing sector. WFAE recently reported on how climate change has already impacted local trout fisheries.
The SELC’s analysis suggests that logging and road-building could contaminate water systems that serve millions in North Carolina. “Millions of people in the state of North Carolina are downstream of these roadless areas,” Evans emphasized.
The deadline for public comments is 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday. Comments can be submitted through the official docket.
