Backlash mounts over proposed repeal of protections for 2M acres of forest in WA

Washington tribal leaders and environmental advocates are mobilizing against the Trump administration's proposal to rescind the Roadless Rule, which safeguards 2 million acres of national forests in the state. The U. S. Forest Service's plan threatens to remove protections for about 45 million acres nationwide, prompting protests and calls for public comments. Lia Brewster, a conservation strategist for the Sierra Club, highlighted the urgency of public opposition during a rally at the state Capitol, where volunteers gathered approximately 120 comments.

While industry groups like the American Forest Resource Council endorse the rollback, citing wildfire risks due to dense forests, opponents argue that the Roadless Rule is crucial for ecosystem protection and wildfire mitigation. The Roadless Rule safeguards important areas in Washington, including habitats for salmon and forests surrounding Olympic National Park. The Trump administration first announced its intent to rescind the rule in June, with the U. S. Department of Agriculture filing a notice of intent for an environmental impact statement.

Activists also launched a campaign involving a totem pole and cedar masks to raise awareness against the repeal. Public comments are open until September 19, as the opposition continues to grow.