Accelerating Forest Management Act

This bill aims to streamline environmental review processes for certain forest management activities by codifying a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This exclusion applies to specific salvage harvesting activities conducted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), exempting them from requiring an environmental assessment or impact statement. The excluded activities primarily involve the removal of dead or dying trees resulting from disturbances such as fire, insects, disease, or drought. These activities are subject to acreage limitations, specifically not exceeding 1,000 acres for smaller disturbances or the lesser of 5,000 acres or one-third of the disturbance area for larger events. The bill also permits the construction of limited new permanent roads and temporary roads, along with maintenance of existing roads, provided they conform to applicable land use plans. Furthermore, the bill mandates the disclosure of design features addressing various resource considerations, including snag and downed wood, erosion control, soil compaction, and riparian areas, to ensure environmental protection. Finally, it extends the authorization for the Forest Ecosystem Health and Recovery Fund from 2020 to 2033, providing continued funding for related initiatives.