U.S. FEDRegulation
Forest Service streamlines predecisional objection process in final rule
The Department of Agriculture issued a final rule amending the Forest Service project-level predecisional administrative review process at 36 CFR part 218. The rule, published October 13, 2026, at 91 FR 64760, consolidates and streamlines objection procedures for projects implementing land management plans on national forests and grasslands, and aligns the process with current National Environmental Policy Act procedures.
Key points
- Only commenters who submitted timely, specific written comments may object under 36 CFR part 218 before decisions on covered forest and grassland projects.Federal Register
- Categorically excluded projects and activities remain exempt from predecisional objection under the updated text.Federal Register
- The final rule takes effect November 12, 2026, and carries RIN 0596-AD69.Federal Register
- The amendments align part 218 with USDA NEPA procedures at 7 CFR part 1b.Federal Register
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Federal Register