Forest Service Seeks More Local Decision-Making Freedom
Published Date: 7/1/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Forest Service is updating its rules to give employees more freedom to adapt programs based on local forest conditions and changing community needs. This means they can be more creative and flexible while still following clear standards. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to send comments by July 31, 2026—no cost involved, just your voice!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.
Handbooks Become Advisory Only
The Forest Service proposes to redefine Forest Service Handbooks as advisory and informational guidance that employees may deviate from. After the initial planned Handbook revisions are finished, subsequent changes to Handbooks would not be subject to the statutory notice-and-comment process under 16 U.S.C. 1612(a).
Initial Handbook Revisions Open To Comment
The Department will review all Handbooks after this rule takes effect and will provide public notice and opportunities to comment on the initial Handbook revisions pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1612(a). The Agency also invites commenters to identify Handbook provisions that should be moved into the Code of Federal Regulations.
Rescinding Directives Not Covered
The proposed rule would amend 36 CFR 216.1(b) to state that the removal or rescission of Forest Service directives is not considered the 'formulation' of standards, criteria, or guidelines and therefore is not subject to notice and comment under part 216. In other words, removing a directive would not require the part 216 public participation procedures.
Tribal Consultation Required
The Department states that the proposed rule would have substantial direct effects on Indian Tribes and therefore requires consultation and coordination with Indian Tribal governments under Executive Order 13175. The Agency must consult with Tribes on this proposed rule.
Officials May Deviate From Manual
The Forest Service Manual would be defined as the primary source of mandatory direction, but 'responsible officials may deviate from Forest Service Manual direction when it is in the public interest, allowable by law, and the reasons are promptly documented.' The Manual remains the codified source of standards, criteria, and guidelines for internal management.
Web Notice, Electronic Comments Default
The rule would allow required notices about formulation of standards, criteria, or guidelines to be published in a 'broadly accessible public forum, such as a web page,' and would make electronic submission the default method for receiving comments. The Agency would no longer be required to provide a physical mailing address for comments; use of a physical mailing address would be discretionary.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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