§583k–3 Priority trail maintenance program

Summary

The Secretary of Agriculture must pick between 9 and 15 priority areas on National Forest System land not later than 6 months after November 28, 2016. Each area must be a clear region where lack of trail upkeep has caused problems such as reduced public access; harm or risk to natural resources; danger to public safety; trails becoming unusable by their intended users; or higher future repair costs. The Secretary must consider public comments sent within 3 months of November 28, 2016, think about all types of trail users (motorized and non‑motorized), and include at least one priority area in each U.S. Forest Service region. Within 6 months after naming the priority areas, the Secretary must create a plan to greatly increase trail maintenance in each area. The plan must consider more public input, weigh costs and benefits, and use partners and volunteers. Regional volunteer and partnership coordinators can help partners run volunteer projects. The Secretary will review the priority areas from time to time and may change, add, or remove areas whenever he decides.