Forest Service to Charge for Your Next Nature Nap?

2026-06547 — Black Pine Gold Project, Cassia and Oneida Counties, Idaho

The Forest Service is starting a 30-day public comment period for the Black Pine Gold Project, a plan to mine gold and silver in Idaho’s Sawtooth National Forest and nearby lands. This project affects local communities, the environment, and federal land rules, with a full review expected by 2028. Your feedback can help shape how mining happens and protect the area’s future.

2026-06166 — Information Collection; Commercial Use of the Woodsy Owl Symbol

The Forest Service is asking for your thoughts on renewing the rules for using the Woodsy Owl symbol in business. If you want to use this famous forest friend’s image, you’ll need to follow updated info collection rules by June 1, 2026. This keeps the symbol safe and ensures everyone plays fair, with no new fees but a fresh paperwork check.

2026-06139 — Information Collection: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Financial Assistance to Facilities That Purchase and Process Byproducts for Ecosystem Restoration (ALN 10.725) Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA)

The USDA Forest Service is keeping a program that helps facilities buy and process leftover wood to restore forests. They’re asking for public comments by June 1, 2026, but aren’t changing the rules right now. This program supports jobs and healthy ecosystems by turning wood waste into useful products.

2026-05767 — Definition of a Ski Area

The Forest Service updated the official definition of a ski area to better match the law and make managing permits easier for both the agency and ski area operators. This change affects anyone running or planning ski areas on National Forest lands and takes effect April 24, 2026. It helps keep skiing and snow sports as the main focus while allowing some other fun activities without extra hassle or fees.

2026-05815 — Information Collection; Forest Industries and Logging Operations Data Collection Systems

The Forest Service wants to keep collecting info about forest industries and logging without changing the current system. If you’re involved in forestry or logging, your input matters! You’ve got until May 26, 2026, to share your thoughts—no extra costs or new rules, just a smooth extension.

2026-05670 — Information Collection; Management of Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros

The Forest Service wants your thoughts on a new way to collect info about managing wild horses and burros roaming free on public lands. This affects ranchers, wildlife lovers, and anyone interested in these animals. You’ve got until May 26, 2026, to share your ideas—no cost to comment, just a chance to help shape how these iconic animals are cared for!

Previous: 2025-17413 — Proposed Recreation Fee Sites

The Chugach National Forest wants to start charging fees at two new recreation spots to help keep them clean, safe, and fun. These fees will be similar to what you’d pay at nearby parks. If you love visiting these areas, get ready to chip in a little to help maintain them soon!

Next: 2025-17415 — Proposed Recreation Fee Site

The Prescott National Forest wants to start charging a small fee at a new recreation spot to help keep it clean, safe, and fun. This fee is similar to what you’d pay at nearby parks, so it’s fair and normal. If you visit, be ready to chip in soon to help improve your outdoor experience!