Disappointment in Alaska as Roadless Rule Protections are Eliminated
Alaskans, businesses, and local organizations expressed strong disappointment today following the Trump Administration’s announcement to eliminate “Roadless Rule” protections in national forests, particularly affecting the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska. Originally established in 2001, the “Roadless Area Conservation Rule” prohibits the construction of new roads in wild areas, safeguarding critical habitats essential for salmon and wildlife.
Local Voices Sound Off
Dan Blanchard, CEO of Uncruise Adventures, emphasized the importance of these protected areas: “Uncruise Adventures is all about exploring wild Alaska. These Roadless areas are the kinds of places we need.”
Hunter McIntosh, President of The Boat Company, added, “I cannot overstate the importance of inventoried Roadless areas to Southeast Alaska’s tourism and recreation economy. The Roadless Rule ensures these irreplaceable lands will remain protected and continue to draw visitors from throughout the globe.” He stressed that remoteness, wildlife, and scenery are the primary attractions for tourists in Southeast Alaska.
“The Tongass is where America comes to see Alaska. More than 2 million people come to witness its wildness, brown bears, glaciers, and the breathtaking landscapes,” noted Dan Kirkwood, Southeast Alaska Program Manager at SalmonState. “The focus should be on managing tourism in a way that allows locals to thrive while conserving what makes Alaska unique.”
Christine Smith, co-owner of Northwest Navigation Co., asserted, “Protecting the Roadless Rule protects the experiences we offer—unspoiled forests, abundant wildlife, and a deep and timeless connection to a wild Alaska.”
Significance of the Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest is essential not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its vital fish populations. Tourism and fisheries together account for 26% of the jobs in Southeast Alaska. The region boasts 13,000 miles of salmon streams crucial for the region’s wild salmon fisheries, contributing to 25% of the West Coast’s salmon catch.
Challenges Ahead
In recent years, Southeast Alaskans have shifted away from destructive logging practices and are embracing sustainable endeavors. A review of public comments during the last Roadless Rule comment period in 2019 revealed significant support for these protections, with numerous local tribes also advocating for conservation. The ongoing public comment period, closing on September 19th, has drawn criticism for being shorter than usual.
The Tongass currently features 1,700 miles of roads available for public use, alongside thousands of abandoned logging roads. Experts have cited a need for extensive restoration to mitigate environmental damage caused by this deteriorating infrastructure. Since the introduction of the Roadless Rule in 2001, the United States Forest Service has identified a backlog of maintenance and reconstruction needs totaling approximately $8.4 billion for the nation’s road systems.
Conclusion
The removal of Roadless Rule protections raises serious concerns for the ecological and economic sustainability of Southeast Alaska. As stakeholders voice their discontent, the fate of these vital lands hangs in the balance.
