USFS

Black Pine Gold Project Environmental Impact Statement

The USDA Forest Service (Sawtooth National Forest) has opened a 30-day public comment period for the Black Pine Gold Project Environmental Impact Statement. Liberty Gold (USA) Inc. proposes open pit mining for gold and silver on National Forest and BLM-administered lands in Idaho. Comments on alternatives and environmental effects are due by May 4, 2026.

Black Pine Gold Project EIS Preparation Notice

The Forest Service has published a notice initiating a 30-day public comment period for the Environmental Impact Statement on the Black Pine Gold Project in Cassia and Oneida Counties, Idaho. The project is a covered project under FAST-41, with comments due by May 4, 2026. The complete EIS is expected within two years.

Revises Ski Area Definition in Special Use Regulations

The USDA Forest Service issued a final rule amending the definition of ski area in 36 CFR 251.51, removing the revenue test that determined primary purpose based on preponderance of revenue from snow sports. The revised definition aligns more closely with statutory authority under the Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement Act of 2011 and reduces regulatory burden on ski area permit holders. The rule takes effect April 24, 2026.

Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance Information Collection Extension

The US Forest Service is seeking public comments on extending an approved information collection for the Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA) program under ALN 10.725, authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The collection (OMB No. 0596-0254) supports grants for sawmills and wood processing facilities near federal or tribal lands identified for ecological restoration. Comments are due June 1, 2026.

Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance Program Information Collection

The Forest Service published a notice requesting public comments on an information collection related to the Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance (WPIA) program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The program provides financial assistance to facilities that purchase and process byproducts for ecosystem restoration. Comments are due by June 1, 2026.

Renewal of Woodsy Owl Symbol Commercial Use Information Collection

The U.S. Forest Service published a notice seeking public comments on the renewal of information collection requirements for the commercial use of the Woodsy Owl symbol. This affects manufacturers, retailers, and other entities seeking to license or use the iconic environmental mascot symbol on products. The comment period closes on June 1, 2026.

Forest Service Revises Ski Area Definition

The Forest Service has issued a final rule revising the definition of a ski area in its special use regulations. This change aligns the definition with statutory authority and aims to reduce administrative burden for both the agency and permit holders. The rule becomes effective on April 24, 2026.

Forest Service Seeks Comments on Wild Horse and Burro Management ICR

The Forest Service is requesting public comment on a new information collection request (ICR) for the management of wild free-roaming horses and burros. This ICR is necessary to comply with existing regulations and laws governing the management and protection of these animals on National Forest System lands. The comment period closes on May 26, 2026.

Forest Service Seeks Comments on Logging Data Collection Extension

The Forest Service is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend the information collection requirements for forest industries and logging operations data collection systems. This notice announces a comment period for stakeholders to provide feedback on the existing data collection processes.

Forest Service Revises Definition of Ski Area

The Forest Service has revised the definition of a ski area in its regulations. This rule amends 36 CFR 251 to clarify what constitutes a ski area, impacting how certain land use permits and operations are categorized and managed on National Forest System lands.