FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 28, 2016

SAF Applauds EPA Decision on Forest Roads

 

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) applauds the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for again affirming that state-level Best Management Practices (BMPs) and related federal and private sector programs are the most effective means to address stormwater runoff from forest roads. With this decision, EPA confirms that no additional regulations are needed under Section 402(p)(6) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) at this time.

“Natural resource professionals continually refine BMPs using emerging science and information gathered through consistent monitoring to design site-specific recommendations and accommodate the broad range of uses and local conditions. The over 90 percent implementation rate nationwide is a testament to stakeholder support and the emphasis placed on maintaining and improving water quality among forest managers. SAF encourages EPA to strengthen these programs by making more CWA Section 319 funds available to enhance state monitoring and testing and to expand education and training programs,” said Clark W. Seely, CF, President of the Society of American Foresters.

This decision responds to the remand in Environmental Defense Center, Inc. v. U.S. EPA, 344 F.2d 832 (9th Cir. 2003) that required EPA to consider whether the CWA requires the Agency to regulate stormwater discharges from forest roads.

EPA anticipates the final notice will be published in the Federal Register in early July 2016.  

For more information, visit EPA’s website at:  https://www.epa.gov/npdes/forest-roads

To see SAF’s comments submitted to EPA, see the new Advocacy & Outreach section of our website at:

http://eforester.org/Main/Advocacy_and_Outreach/Main/Issues_and_Advocacy/Issues_And_Policy_Overview.aspx?hkey=c184075d-cfe2-4ab0-9b91-2e67efb51151


Media Contacts: Lisa Swann, SAF
301-897-8720, [email protected]
John Barnwell, 301-526-7075, [email protected]

 

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. Founded in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. The mission of the Society of American Foresters is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry. A 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, SAF members include natural resource professionals in public and private settings, researchers, CEOs, administrators, educators, and students.