Forest Resources Accountability Act

This bill, titled the "Forest Resources Accountability Act," aims to prohibit a specific road construction project within the White River National Forest in Colorado, primarily to protect critical winter wildlife habitat . The bill's findings highlight a significant decrease in Forest Service staffing, leading to reduced hazardous fuels reduction, trails maintenance, and scientific research projects. This context emphasizes the need for the Forest Service to prioritize projects addressing public needs like wildfire risk reduction, forest health, and recreation, rather than new road construction. Specifically, the legislation prohibits the Secretary of Agriculture from approving or funding any new utility corridor or year-round road, including the Berlaimont Estates access road, on designated Federal land. It mandates that any access to the affected 680-acre parcel must be limited to existing, unpaved, seasonal routes with specific use permits. Furthermore, the bill directs the Secretary to acquire the parcel from willing sellers , coordinating with state and local entities, to incorporate it into the White River National Forest for conservation and public enjoyment.