The roadless rule is a rule that aims to keep forests protected from logging and deforestation. The thought is that making it difficult for loggers to go in and exploit the resources will protect the areas. Another aspect of the roadless rule is that it also prevents development of the area and clearing the forests. Given the benefits of the program, this program is essential for the remaining forests of the United States. In recent news, there is a proposed bill that would remove this ruling from Utah.
Some of the human dimensions of this discussion: decreased emotional wellbeing, increased smog and reduced air quality leading to poor health, increased access to remote areas and reduced biodiversity. Based on a study done in 2024 which was an analysis of studies in literature (i.e. other texts that were using or siting this type of therapy) since the 80’s, evidence suggests that forest therapy was becoming extremely popular with very positive results. “This holistic practice, celebrated for its capacity to improve human physiological and psychological health and well-being, involves the mindful engagement of the five senses while unwinding in natural settings.” (Wan, Wan, and Qui, 2024) A reduction in forest areas would likely have a devastating effect on mental health, especially in places like Utah that have less forested areas already. Without access to the forests, people would not be able to seek comfort in those areas, leading to decreased mental wellness and effective options for therapy. If no forests are available to walk in, no forest therapy can take place. With fewer trees, the air quality will decline. More highways means more pollution and more smog. Without trees to clean the air, people would struggle to find areas of clean air and have a higher likelihood of frequent respiratory infections. According to a study done in 2016, a higher risk of colds, wheezing, and cough (especially in children) was associated with lower air quality. (Singleton, et. Others, 2016) Allowing roads in the forests leads to the timber industry harvesting the lumber. This in turn causes deforestation. Deforestation decreases the biodiversity in an area. Based on a study done in 2025, urbanization is a key factor in reduced biodiversity and has a significant impact on bird populations. The findings of the study found that, “global urban growth directly caused 3.3 million hectares of forest habitat loss from 1992 to 2015.” (Lu, 2025)
This problem should be a tame problem in that we know and have known these issues to the environment, like deforestation, causes problems for humans time and time again. We have these protections in place, like the Roadless Rule, already since these are known solutions to known problems. Now, that being said we are discussing the fact that it is being repealed and so this is becoming a wicked issue. This means it is becoming an issue that is less accepted and more debated. However, I think that it is still a tame problem as it is not really an uncertain issue.
Our resources need to be managed effectively and wisely. This incudes the forests, lakes, farmland, etc. Seeing as one resource can so drastically affect the quality of our air, our mental health, and the biodiversity of our communities it is pertinent that we conserve, protect, and regulate such. Most people will start to pay attention to the issues at hand when they begin to affect the people more than the environment; not realizing it is certain that after the environment is affected, animals including people will begin to fell the effects next. Natural resources are to be respected and protected. I hope this research and study leads me to a better understanding of our natural resources and how to be apart of protecting them.
Here is a link to the article addressing the presidential administration’s proposal to remove roadless rules:
Sources:
Wan, R., Wan, R., & Qiu, Q. (2024). Progress and Prospects of Research on the Impact of Forest Therapy on Mental Health: A Bibliometric Analysis. Forests, 15(6), 1013. https://doi.org/10.3390/f15061013
Singleton, R., Salkoski, A. J., Bulkow, L., Fish, C., Dobson, J., Albertson, L., Skarada, J., Kovesi, T., McDonald, C., Hennessy, T. W., & Ritter, T. (2017). Housing characteristics and indoor air quality in households of Alaska Native children with chronic lung conditions. Indoor Air, 27(2), 478–486. https://doi.org/10.1111/ina.12315
Lu, X., Guo, Y., Wang, Y., Zhang, Z., & Chen, J. (2025). Changes in bird occupancy and its association with functional traits under long-term context of urbanization and suburbanization in a metropolis. Biodiversity and Conservation, 34(5), 1091–1114.
BethAshlei 
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