Welcome to the Forest Service Policy Report! Our goal is to provide updates on agency policy actions, including directives and regulations.

RECENTLY ISSUED DIRECTIVES

FSH 1909.15 Chapter 10 - Environmental Analysis (03/03/23)

Updates directive to the new 508 compliant format. Establishes a new section to incorporate provisions on 36 CFR 220.4(j), Determination of NEPA Adequacy.

FSH 1909.15 Chapter 30 - Categorical Exclusion from Documentation (03/03/23)

Updates directive to the new 508 compliant format. Updates list of “Categories Established by the Chief” to incorporate categorical exclusions and modifications included in the 36 CFR 220 Final Rule on 11/19/2020 (73620 FR Vol. 85, No. 224). Removes Category 36 CFR 220.6(d)(10); this category was incorporated into 36 CFR 220.6(d)(11) when the regulations were updated. Adds 36 CFR 220.6(d)(11) and 36 CFR 220.6(d)(12). Other significant changes not listed here are included within the digest.

FSH 2200.13 Chapter 80 - Grazing Fees (03/06/23)

Defines “other lands under Forest Service control” and gives examples of where this situation might result in assessing a grazing fee for use on those lands. Clarifies when offspring reach the age of maturity and must be charged the grazing fee for occupancy. Eliminates Exhibit 02 showing calculations for grazing seasons less than one month in length. Other significant changes not listed here are included within the digest.

FSM 2350 Section 2358 - Saw Program (03/06/23)

Updates directive to the new 508 compliant format. Incorporates, with changes, Interim Directive ID-2300-2021-1. Clarifies the terms “saw” and “Saw Program” in reference to chainsaws, crosscut saws and handsaws used for cutting material larger than 5 inches DBH unless specified otherwise. Other significant changes not listed here are included within the digest.

REGULATORY ACTION

Alaska Roadless Rule Repeal (01/27/23)

Docket: Regulations.gov

Final rule repeals the 2020 Alaska Roadless Rule, reinstating application of 2001 Roadless Rule on the Tongass National Forest. A Determination of NEPA Adequacy was completed to utilize Final Environmental Impact Statement for 2020 Alaska Roadless Rule.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

There are no new announcements regarding upcoming events, but please continue to check this report as new updates may be included in the future.

If you have questions or recommendations for Policy Report content that would be valuable to you and your colleagues, please contact Miranda Galadima (Miranda.galadima@usda.gov).