Comment On Forest Planning Rule

On February 10, 2011, The United States Department of Agriculture and the Forest Service unveiled a new draft Forest Planning Rule to govern the long term plans that guide the management of each unit of our national forest systems. The plan would establish a new national framework to develop land management plans that protect water and wildlife and promote vibrant communities. You can view the plan at www.fs.fed.us. Approximately 193 million acres of critical watersheds and wildlife habitat are across the United States. National Forests in Montana comprise of nearly 16 million acres. The Center for Western Lands Director, at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Joel Webster says it is important for Montanans to have the opportunity to express their opinions about the management plan.

Public comments can be submitted to www.govcommetnts.com through May 16.