SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, both representing Alaska, have expressed their support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to begin repealing the 2001 Roadless Rule nationwide. This announcement was made by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.

Senator Murkowski stated, "The Roadless Rule has never fit Alaska, so I welcome this effort to rescind it." She emphasized that even without the rule, nearly 80 percent of the Tongass National Forest would remain restricted from development. Murkowski believes that repealing the rule will not cause environmental harm but will instead open opportunities in renewable energy, forestry, mining, and tourism—sectors crucial for a sustainable economy in Southeast Alaska.

Senator Sullivan also supported the decision by Secretary Rollins and President Trump to repeal the rule. He noted that since its implementation in 2001, the rule has hindered Alaskans' ability to manage resources effectively and develop projects at lower costs. Sullivan expressed gratitude towards the Trump administration for rescinding this rule to allow Alaskans more control over their economic activities while protecting lands.

The Tongass National Forest covers nearly 16.7 million acres in Southeast Alaska and includes 32 islanded communities. The Roadless Rule has limited access needed for various industries such as timber and mining since its inception in 2001.

In October 2020, an Alaska-specific exemption from the Roadless Rule was finalized following a petition from the State of Alaska. However, this exemption was repealed by the USDA Forest Service under President Biden's administration in January 2023 despite previous data supporting it.