RCRC members are encouraged to submit comments on regulatory matters to state and federal regulatory bodies, and to provide a copy to RCRC’s Government Affairs staff. Click “Read More” to access information related to the current status of regulations impacting California’s rural counties.
U.S. Forest Service Issues Final Policy on Over-Snow Vehicles
The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has released a final policy on managing snowmobiles and other over-snow vehicles (OSV) on national forest lands through the travel management planning process. The policy, which was first released for public comment in June 2014, implements a ruling by the Idaho District Court requiring the USFS to regulate OSV use through designations in travel management plans. Forest supervisors will now be responsible for specifically allowing, restricting, or prohibiting OSV use on national forest system roads and trails.
RCRC’s comments on the policy can be accessed here. The policy will be in effect February 27, 2015. For more information, visit the U.S. Forest Service website, accessed here.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Threatened Species Status for West Coast Distinct Population Segment of Fisher: Proposes to list the west coast distinct population of fisher as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Status: Draft published on October 7, 2014 for a 90-day comment period, comment deadline extended to February 5, 2015. Proposed regulation and related documents can be accessed here. RCRC Comments: Staff is seeking input from member counties. RCRC Advocate: Staci Heaton sheaton@rcrcnet.org
Grazing Regulatory Action Project: Develops a program to enhance the environmental benefits and mitigate water quality impacts of livestock grazing. Agency: State Water Resources Control Board Status: Board recently completed invitation-only listening sessions with targeted stakeholders. Initial public meetings to discuss the project are in process. An initial draft proposal is expected in early 2015. Information on the program can be accessed here. RCRC Comments: Staff is seeking input from member counties. RCRC Advocate: Staci Heaton sheaton@rcrcnet.org
Use by Over-Snow Vehicles (Travel Management Rule): Implements a court decision requiring national forests to designate roads for access by over-snow vehicles. Agency: USDA Forest Service Status: Final rule published on January 28, 2015. The Federal Register notice, including response to comments, can be accessed here. RCRC Comments: RCRC’s comment letter can be accessed here. RCRC Advocate: Staci Heaton sheaton@rcrcnet.org