Idaho Forest Ditches Noxious Weed Mega-Study for Speedy Swap

2026-16965, Special Areas; Roadless Area Conservation

The USDA wants to cancel the 2001 Roadless Rule that stopped road building and logging in special forest areas. This change gives local forest managers more freedom to decide how to care for these lands based on local needs. People have until September 21, 2026, to share their thoughts, and this could affect how forests are managed and how money is spent on these lands.

2026-18765, Mount Taylor Ranger District, Cibola National Forest & National Grasslands; New Mexico; Roca Honda Mine Project

The Forest Service is starting a review of the Roca Honda Mine Project, a plan to build and run an underground uranium mine in New Mexico’s Cibola National Forest and nearby lands. They want your thoughts by October 14, 2026, before deciding if the project can move forward. The full environmental report will be ready by January 2028, and this project could change how the forest is managed.

2026-18239, Proposed Recreation Fee Sites

The Ouachita National Forest plans to start charging fees at some picnic and recreation spots to help keep them clean, safe, and fun. Groups using picnic sites like Cedar Lake will pay $50 a day, and reservations will cost an extra $8 online. These changes could start about six months after this notice, making your outdoor adventures even better!

2026-18240, Proposed Recreation Fee Sites

The El Yunque National Forest is proposing to establish several recreation pass options and a special recreation permit. Proposed recreation fees collected for the proposed recreation passes and for the proposed special recreation permit would be used for operation, maintenance, and improvement of the sites and the special recreation use covered by the proposed special recreation permit. An analysis of nearby recreation fee sites and special recreation uses with similar amenities shows that the proposed recreation fees are reasonable and typical of similar recreation fee sites and special recreation uses in the area.

2026-18246, Proposed Recreation Fee Sites

The Ashley National Forest wants to start charging fees at two fun spots: Kaler Hollow Group Campground and Uinta Guard Station. Groups can expect to pay $50 or $70 per night, with fees helping improve the sites and services. If approved, these fees will kick in at least six months after this notice, and you can book your spot online or by phone with a small reservation fee.

2026-18244, Proposed Recreation Fee Sites

The Cleveland National Forest is proposing to establish two special recreation permits. Proposed recreation fees collected at the proposed special recreation permit sites would be used for operation, maintenance, and improvement of the sites and the special recreation use covered by the proposed special recreation permit. An analysis of nearby special recreation uses with similar amenities shows that the proposed recreation fees are reasonable and typical of similar special recreation uses in the area.

Previous: 2025-03821, Child Nutrition Programs: Income Eligibility Guidelines

Starting July 1, 2025, the USDA is updating the income rules that decide who can get free or cheaper school meals, milk, and summer food benefits. These changes help make sure kids from families who need it most get the right support, reflecting cost-of-living changes. Schools, care centers, and tribal groups will use these new guidelines through June 2026 to keep feeding hungry kids.

Next: 2025-03951, North Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

The North Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding virtual meetings from March 27 to April 7, 2025, to discuss important fishery rules and science updates. Fishermen, seafood businesses, and communities depending on North Pacific fisheries should pay attention, as these talks could lead to changes in fishing limits and survey methods. No direct costs are mentioned, but the decisions could impact how fish are managed and caught in the future.