Trump moves to end protections for nearly 45M acres of national forests
The Trump administration has proposed ending decades-old protections for nearly 45 million acres of wilderness in national forests, paving the way for logging and road building on the land.
TL;DR
- The Trump administration proposed ending protections for approximately 45 million acres of wilderness in national forests.
- This move would repeal the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, allowing for logging and road building on the land.
- The administration claims the rule prevents wildfire risk-reduction work, while conservationists argue it protects wildlife and the climate.
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of logging in preventing wildfires.
- The proposal would primarily affect 10 Western states, which are experiencing increased wildfire risks.
- Conservation groups like Earthjustice are vocally opposing the administration's proposal.