Forest Service Seeks Comments on Proposed Rule to Revise Implementation of the Small Tracts Act

On February 26, 2020 the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service (Service) published a proposed rule to revise the regulations implementing the Small Tracts Act. The 2018 Farm Bill created a new category of lands eligible for conveyance outside of the National Forest System. This change allows for the conveyance of parcels of 40 acres or less that are physically isolated, inaccessible or have lost their Federal character, as well as changes to those parcels that are 10 acres or less. The Service states that the rule will provide more flexibility for resolving conflicts with private landowners and is not expected to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. Written comments are due by April 27, 2020.  

• Read the Federal Register notice, register for the public hearing, and submit written comments here.
• Advocacy contact: Prianka Sharma at (202) 205-6938.