FHWAFinal Rule

Rescinding Regulations Regarding Management Systems Pertaining to the Forest Service and the Forest Highway Program

TransportationEnvironmentOther

Summary

The Federal Highway Administration is removing old rules that controlled how the Forest Service managed roads and highways in national forests. This change simplifies how these agencies work together and could affect how forest roads are maintained and used by the public.

Key Points

  • 1The FHWA is eliminating outdated management system requirements that previously governed Forest Service road operations
  • 2This affects the Forest Highway Program, which funds and maintains roads that run through or provide access to national forests
  • 3The change reduces regulatory oversight and gives the Forest Service more flexibility in how it manages these forest roads
  • 4Public access to national forests and recreation areas could be impacted depending on how the Forest Service adjusts road maintenance priorities
  • 5States and local communities that depend on forest highways for transportation and economic access may see changes in road conditions or funding

Impact Assessment

If you are a State Government or local transportation agency, this means you may have greater flexibility in coordinating with the Forest Service on national forest road maintenance and access, with potentially reduced regulatory requirements.

Impact Level
Moderate
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Minimal

Who is Affected
State GovernmentsTribal NationsTransportation CompaniesHomeowners

Key Dates

Published

November 17, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
23 CFR Part 660
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (FHWA-2025-0016)

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.