Americans are sending a powerful message: Our national forests are worth protecting.
More than 1 million public comments have been submitted opposing the Trump administration's proposal to eliminate the 2001 Roadless Rule, demonstrating overwhelming public support for protecting some of America's most treasured public lands.
For 25 years, the Roadless Rule has protected nearly 59 million acres of national forests from most new road construction and commercial logging. These protections help safeguard clean drinking water, preserve critical wildlife habitat, and ensure that future generations can enjoy some of the country's most pristine forests.
But the Trump administration wants to roll back these longstanding protections, potentially opening millions of acres of public lands to logging, roadbuilding, and industrial development.
The public isn't having it.
Throughout the public comment period, Sierra Club members, supporters, and conservation advocates across the country raised their voices to defend these forests, sending in more than 65,000 comments to the US Forest Service. Sierra Club activists’ and volunteers’ participation helped contribute to a remarkable outpouring of opposition to the proposed rollback. Overall, the more than 1 million comments represent a powerful reminder that Americans care deeply about their public lands and are willing to stand up for them.
While the comment period has closed, the fight to preserve the Roadless Rule is far from over. The administration must now consider the overwhelming public response as it determines its next steps.
Thanks to everyone who submitted comments, shared information, and encouraged others to get involved. Together, we're making it clear that our national forests belong to everyone, not just the industries seeking to exploit them.
Our forests are worth fighting for, and we're not backing down.