Trump administration pushes to expand logging and road access in national forests

The Trump administration plans to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule, which protects nearly 60 million acres of national forests from road construction, arguing it will aid wildfire suppression. However, experts warn that more roads could increase wildfire risks, as roads are common ignition points and can alter vegetation. The move has sparked controversy, with environmental groups opposing it and some former officials suggesting that targeted, 'surgical' road building might be beneficial for firefighting and forest health. The public comment period on this proposal ends September 19.