HR 119 – Forest Service Wilderness and Roadless Areas Conservation Act of 2023
Introduction
This bill establishes wilderness areas, roadless areas, and other protected lands within the National Forest System.
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Section 101
This section provides a general overview of the bill’s provisions.
“The purpose of this Act is to—
(1) preserve, protect, and promote for their natural beauty, diversity, and recreational opportunities wilderness areas, wild rivers, and other lands within the National Forest System; and
(2) conserve the habitat of threatened and endangered species and their habitats.
Section 102: Establishment of Wilderness Areas
This section establishes wilderness areas within the National Forest System, which are protected from human development and recreation.
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Establishment criteria:
The Secretary shall establish a wilderness area only after ensuring that—
(1) there is no practicable alternative to the establishment of such an area; and
(2) such an area can be managed in a manner that provides for the conservation of natural and cultural resources.
Section 103: Establishment of Roadless Areas
This section establishes roadless areas within the National Forest System, which are protected from road construction and human development.
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Establishment criteria:
The Secretary shall establish a roadless area only after ensuring that—
(A) there is no practicable alternative to the establishment of such an area;
(B) such an area can be managed in a manner that provides for the conservation of natural and cultural resources; and
(C) the area does not contain any significant environmental or economic impacts.
Section 104: Management of Wilderness Areas and Roadless Areas
This section outlines the management principles for wilderness areas and roadless areas within the National Forest System.
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Wilderness area management:
The Secretary shall manage a wilderness area in accordance with this Act, including—
(1) protecting the area from human development and recreation; and
(2) conserving natural and cultural resources.
Section 105: Establishment of Special Management Areas
This section establishes special management areas within the National Forest System, which are managed for specific purposes such as recreation or conservation.
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Purpose:
The purpose of a special management area shall be—
(A) to provide opportunities for outdoor recreation; or
(B) to conserve and protect natural and cultural resources.
Section 106: Authorization of Appropriations
This section authorizes appropriations for the administration and management of wilderness areas, roadless areas, and other protected lands within the National Forest System.
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Authorization:
The Secretary shall request an appropriation in each fiscal year to carry out—
(1) the establishment of new wilderness areas; and
(2) the management and maintenance of existing wilderness areas.
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Report to Congress:
The Secretary shall submit a report to Congress not later than one year after the completion of each fiscal year, as required by law.
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