WTAs 2025 Roads Report The future of roads connecting people to public lands is eroding

The Washington Trails Association (WTA) has unveiled its 2025 roads report, which identifies 10 essential roads for outdoor recreation in Washington state, including Chiwawa River Road and Silver Star Road. The report calls for increased funding for road maintenance to safeguard access to public lands, especially amidst significant staffing cuts at the U. S. Forest Service. Only 15% of the budget is available to maintain the extensive 90,000 miles of forest roads in Oregon and Washington, leading to deteriorating road conditions.

This situation threatens accessibility to trails and trail networks, forcing users onto fewer paths. Andrea Imler, WTA’s advocacy director, stated that forest roads are crucial for accessing the state's outdoor areas, which contribute over $8. 2 billion to the economy and support more than 81,000 jobs. Additionally, trail-based recreation generates $390 million in annual health savings. The report highlights the broader implications of decreased funding for public lands, impacting local economies and community well-being.

Citizens can review the report and join WTA’s Trail Action Network to advocate for public lands.