Federal Register #2026-17252

Revision to NEPA Procedures: New Categorical Exclusion for Forest and Woodland Density Management

The Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary, is announcing a revision to its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) implementing procedures. - Revision introduces a new categorical exclusion (CE) for forest and woodland density management activities - No procurement of products or services; this is an internal procedural update - No OEMs or vendors are mentioned - The new CE covers: - Cutting, yarding, and removal of dead or dying trees - Chipping or grinding residual slash - Burning (pile or underburning) - Seeding or planting to accelerate native species reestablishment - Environmental safeguards required: - Limits on road construction - Erosion control measures - Prevention of invasive species - Other protections to ensure environmental compliance - Purpose is to streamline NEPA compliance for eligible forest management actions while maintaining environmental standards

Description

This notice announces a revision to the Department of the Interior's National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) procedures by adding a new categorical exclusion (CE) for forest and woodland density management. The CE is included in the Department's Handbook of NEPA Implementing Procedures, Appendix 2: Bureau Categorical Exclusions. The CE covers actions such as cutting, yarding, removal of trees, chipping or removal of residual slash, burning, and seeding or planting to accelerate native species reestablishment. The CE is effective August 24, 2026, and aims to facilitate efficient NEPA compliance for forest and woodland density management activities while ensuring environmental protections.

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