Trail Access Flip Sparks Debate | Spokane News

The Forest Service is proposing a major flip in how motorized trails are managed—shifting from “closed unless marked open” to “open unless specifically closed,” sparking fierce debate. Advocates for off-road users see it as restoring lost access, while conservationists warn it could unleash environmental damage and escalate conflicts. The proposal also seeks to scrap “minimization criteria” meant to protect sensitive ecosystems, a move supporters call unrealistic and opponents see as essential. With public comments now open, this pivotal decision could reshape millions of acres of national forest land for years to come. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/27c015df36268c51