Protesters Gather to Oppose Repeal of 2001 Roadless Rule
Protesters, including hunters and anglers, gathered on the Missoula County Courthouse lawn to oppose the U.S. Forest Service's proposal to repeal the 2001 Roadless Rule, citing concerns about its impact on outdoor recreation, wildlife, and water resources.
Missoula, MT, September 30, 2026 —
A group of protesters, identifying themselves as hunters and anglers, convened on the Missoula County Courthouse lawn to voice their opposition to the U.S. Forest Service’s proposed repeal of the 2001 Roadless Rule.
The demonstration focused on concerns regarding the potential impacts of repealing the rule, which was established to protect certain undeveloped areas of the National Forest System from activities such as road construction and timber harvesting.
Participants expressed that the repeal could negatively affect outdoor recreation opportunities, harm wildlife habitats, and degrade vital water resources. The specific details regarding the timeline of the proposed repeal or any official response from the U.S. Forest Service were not provided in the summary.
The 2001 Roadless Rule has been a subject of debate since its inception, with various stakeholders holding differing views on its efficacy and its effects on land management and economic activities.
The gathering on the courthouse lawn aimed to draw public attention and convey the protesters’ perspective on the importance of maintaining the protections afforded by the Roadless Rule for the long-term health of natural landscapes and the activities they support.
Story summarized from the original created by MTN News on www.kpax.com, see more information here.