Forest Service proposes new climbing guidance for National Forest lands
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The Forest Service is proposing new guidance for managing climbing on National Forest System lands, including wilderness areas. The proposal would add direction to the Forest Service Manual for climbing opportunities and reflect requirements from the EXPLORE Act for climbing in congressionally designated wilderness. Climbers, outdoor recreation groups, guide services, conservation organizations, and businesses tied to recreation on federal forest lands may be affected. The agency is seeking written public comments by July 20, 2026, so stakeholders should review the proposal and submit feedback if the guidance could affect access, fixed anchors, resource protection, or recreation planning.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Creates proposed Forest Service Manual guidance for climbing opportunities on National Forest System lands
- Adds direction for climbing in congressionally designated wilderness under the EXPLORE Act
- Opens a public comment period ending July 20, 2026
Obligations
What this law requires
Submit any written public comments on the proposed Forest Service climbing guidance by July 20, 2026, using the electronic comment portal or mailed submission address provided in the notice.
Commenters should not include information they do not want made public because all timely comments, including names and addresses, will be placed in the public record and made available for inspection and copying.