Sec. 205. Categorical exclusion to improve, restore, and reduce the risk of wildfire
334 words·~2 min read·
/bill/114/s/3085/is/section-205·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
In this section: The term hazardous fuels management means any vegetation management activities that reduce the risk of wildfire. The term late-season grazing means grazing activities that occur during the period— beginning when both the invasive species and native perennial species have completed the current-year annual growth cycle of the species; and ending when new plant growth begins to appear in the following year. The term targeted livestock grazing means grazing used for purposes of hazardous fuel reduction. A categorical exclusion is available to the Secretary concerned to carry out a forest management activity described in subsection
(d)on National Forest System Land or public land— in any case in which the forest management activity is developed and recommended through a collaborative process; and when the primary purpose of the activity on that land is— to improve forest health; to restore forest health; or to reduce the risk of wildfire. A forest management activity covered by the categorical exclusion described in subsection (b)— may not exceed 5,000 acres; and shall consider the best available scientific information. The following activities may be carried out using a categorical exclusion described in subsection (b): Removal of juniper trees, medusahead rye, conifer trees, pinon pine trees, cheatgrass, and other noxious or invasive weeds specified on Federal or State noxious weeds lists through late-season livestock grazing, targeted livestock grazing, prescribed burns, and mechanical treatments. Performance of hazardous fuels management. Creation of fuel and fire breaks. Modification of existing fences so as to distribute livestock and help improve wildlife habitat. Installation of erosion control devices. Construction of new and maintenance of permanent infrastructure, including stock ponds, water catchments, and water spring boxes used to benefit livestock and improve wildlife habitat. Performance of soil treatments, native and nonnative seeding, and planting of and transplanting sagebrush, grass, forb, shrub, and other species. Use of herbicides, if the Secretary concerned determines that the activity is otherwise conducted consistently with agency procedures, including any forest plan applicable to the area covered by the activity.