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The Forest Service issued proposed planning directives on February 27, 2013 (RIN # 0596-AD06), which would provide guidance to agency staff on implementation of the recently revised land management planning regulation at 36 CFR 219 (RIN 0596-AC94) (the "2012 Planning Rule"), which was effective May 9, 2012. A 60-day period, extended for an additional 15 days, for the public to comment on the proposed directives concluded on May 24, 2013. The proposed directives have been revised, based on public comment, and the agency seeks to publish a Notice of Availability of the final Directives.

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires that the Forest Service develop land management plans for each unit of the National Forest System, and the agency maintain regulations (Planning Rule) that guide the development and content of such plans. In addition to formal regulations, the agency uses its system of directives to provide more detailed guidance on how to meet the requirements of the Planning Rule.

Statement of Need:

The existing direction in the Forest Service Manual 1920 and the Forest Service Handbook 1909.12 regarding Land Management Planning needs to be updated to support implementation of the 2012 Planning Rule (36 CFR 219). This brings the planning directives in line with the new planning rule and clarifies substantive and procedural requirements to implement the rule. The updated directives implements a planning framework that fosters collaboration with the public during land management planning, and is science-based, responsive to change, and promotes social, economic, and ecological sustainability.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

The Forest Service promulgated a new land management planning regulation at 36 CFR 219 (the "2012 Planning Rule"). The final Planning rule and record of decision was published on April 9, 2012 (77 FR 21162).

Alternatives:

The Forest Service finalized the directives to bring the Forest Services' internal directives in-line with the CFR.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

No new costs to the agency or the public are associated with these directives. The amended directives results in more effective and efficient planning within the Agency's capability.

Risks:

There are no risks to the public or to the Forest Service associated with this rulemaking.