Forest Resources Accountability Act

Ban new roads and buy parcel

If enacted, the Secretary of Agriculture would be barred from approving easements, special use permits, or other authorizations to open, build, plan, or consider any utility corridor or year-round road described in the March 2023 record of decision or any substantially similar project on the defined Federal land in the White River National Forest. Federal funds could not be used to take those actions to locate a utility corridor or year-round road to access the 680-acre Berlaimont Estates parcel. The bill would limit "adequate access" to routes that existed as of the March 2023 record of decision, are unpaved, seasonal, and are restricted to uses written in a special use permit; existing Forest Service roads in use on the date of enactment could still be used by the Forest Service, the parcel owner, and the public. The Secretary would also be required, to the maximum extent practicable, to acquire the 680-acre parcel from any willing seller by purchase, exchange, or donation, coordinate with Colorado, Eagle County, and local land trusts, and report acquisition efforts to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee within 180 days after enactment. If acquired, the parcel would be added to the White River National Forest and managed for wildlife conservation and public enjoyment.