Resilient Federal Forests Act

Resilient Federal Forests Act

This bill modifies and sets forth provisions regarding forest management activities on National Forest System, public, and tribal lands.

The bill provides for, among other things

• the Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Interior to conduct fireshed management projects in fireshed management areas,
• certain categorical exclusions for various purposes,
• the balancing of the short- and long-term effects of forest management activities while considering injunctive relief,
• USDA and Interior to establish their own discretionary arbitration pilot programs as an alternative dispute resolution process for forest management activities,
• increasing the maximum term for a stewardship end result contract to 20 years,
• demonstration projects to support the development and commercialization of biochar on Indian forest lands or rangelands and in nearby communities by providing reliable supplies of feedstock from federal lands,
• the decommissioning of certain Forest Service Roads within designated high fire-prone areas,
• repealing of the Eastside Screens requirements on National Forest System lands,
• making the Northwest Forest Plan Survey and Manage Mitigation Measure Standards and Guidelines inapplicable to any National Forest System lands or public lands,
• development of a protection plan for giant sequoia trees on National Forest System lands and public lands, and
• permanent rights of access to the Oregon and California Railroad grant lands and the Coos Bay Wagon Road grant lands for private landowners issued reciprocal road rights-of-way.

The Resilient Federal Forests Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 4614, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing issues related to forest management on federal lands. The bill focuses on promoting healthy forests, reducing the risk of wildfires, and improving the overall resilience of federal forests.

One key aspect of the Resilient Federal Forests Act is the emphasis on active forest management practices, such as thinning and prescribed burns, to reduce the buildup of hazardous fuels and promote forest health. The bill also seeks to streamline the environmental review process for forest management projects, with the goal of expediting the implementation of necessary measures to protect forests and surrounding communities.

Additionally, the Resilient Federal Forests Act includes provisions to increase collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, as well as private landowners, in managing forests and preventing wildfires. The bill also addresses funding for wildfire suppression efforts and provides resources for forest restoration and rehabilitation. Overall, the Resilient Federal Forests Act aims to improve the health and resilience of federal forests, reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, and promote sustainable forest management practices. The bill has garnered support from various stakeholders, including environmental groups, industry organizations, and government agencies, as a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges facing federal forests in the United States.