The U.S. Forest Service's proposal aims to increase logging on federal lands to combat wildfires and support rural economies, reversing decades of conservation efforts.
Federal officials argue that worsening wildfires driven by climate change necessitate more proactive forest management to boost resilience and provide a consistent timber supply.
The proposal could elevate timber harvests by at least 33%, and potentially more than 200%, which would create jobs in rural areas affected by the decline of the timber industry.
Changes to logging regulations include allowing harvests in areas with trees up to 120 years old, helping create larger, old growth trees that are more resistant to fires.
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