USFS Travel Management Plans: What are they and how do they work?

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) plays a crucial role in managing public land across the country and over 9-million acres in Wyoming. Over the last year, there have been several reports that the 2005 Travel Management Rule (Rule) is being actively reviewed by the USFS. This article explains what Travel Management Plans are, how they are developed, and what a possible rescission would mean for Wyoming Counties.

In December 2025, the USFS withdrew its 2016 Notice of Intent to prepare a Travel Management Plan for the Shoshone National Forest. While travel management decisions may be developed through different planning processes across the National Forest System, all national forests are required under the 2005 Travel Management Rule to designate motor vehicle use on National Forest System roads, trails, and areas. These designations are reflected in each forest's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM), which identifies where motorized travel is legally permitted.

Because travel management decisions determine which roads and trails remain available for motorized access, they can directly affect recreation, grazing operations, energy development, emergency response, and local economic activity.

What is a Travel Management Plan?

Travel management is the process by which the Forest Service designates where motor vehicles may travel on National Forest System roads, trails, and areas. These decisions are often developed through environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and in coordination with state and local governments. These decisions identify which routes are open to motorized use, what vehicle types may use them, and whether seasonal restrictions apply.

The goal is to balance public access with conservation. Without clear guidelines, unrestricted travel can lead to soil erosion, water pollution, habitat destruction, and conflicts among different user groups. Plans help reduce these risks by:

• Defining designated routes for motorized travel

• Protecting sensitive areas from damage

• Improving safety for visitors

• Supporting sustainable recreation and resource use

  
  

How the USFS Develops Travel Management Plans

Creating a Travel Management Plan involves a multi-step process that includes public input, NEPA environmental analysis, and collaboration with local governments and stakeholders. The process typically follows these stages:

1. Notice of Intent (when required): For projects requiring an Environmental Impact Statement, the USFS may publish a Notice of Intent in the Federal Register to begin the NEPA process and seek early public input.

   
   

2. Data Collection and Analysis: The Forest Service gathers information on existing roads and trails, environmental conditions, wildlife habitats, and current use patterns.

   
   

3. Public Engagement: The USFS holds meetings, workshops, and comment periods to hear from county commissioners, local residents, recreational users, and conservation groups.

   
   

4. Draft Plan Development: Based on data and public input, the USFS drafts a plan that designates which routes remain open, which close, and any new restrictions or improvements.

   
   

5. Environmental Review: As part of its compliance with NEPA, the USFS generates an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement to evaluate potential effects on ecosystems and communities.

   
   

6. Final Plan and Implementation: After considering all feedback and environmental findings, the USFS issues a final decision and begins implementation, enforcement, and monitoring.

   
   

This process can take years, reflecting the complexity of balancing multiple interests on public land.

The Impact of Travel Management Plans on Local Communities

Travel Management Plans affect more than just forest visitors, they have direct implications for county governments and residents, including:

• Economic Effects: Access to public land supports tourism, outdoor recreation businesses, and local jobs. Restrictions can reduce visitor numbers or shift use patterns.

  
  

• Infrastructure and Maintenance: Designated routes require upkeep. Counties may partner with the USFS to maintain roads and trails, sharing costs and responsibilities.

  
  

• Environmental Protection: Proper management helps preserve water quality, wildlife habitat, and scenic values that benefit communities.

  
  

• Public Safety: Clear travel rules reduce accidents and conflicts among users, improving overall safety.

  
  

County commissioners should understand how Travel Management Plans align with local land use goals and advocate for plans that balance access with conservation.

Counties can play a unique role in travel management planning. National Forest System roads and trails often affect local economies, emergency response, grazing operations, forest management activities, and access to public lands. Through the NEPA process and government-to-government coordination, county officials have opportunities to provide local data, identify potential impacts, and advocate for outcomes that reflect community priorities.

How County Commissioners Can Engage with Travel Management Planning

County officials have several opportunities to influence Travel Management Plans:

• Participate Early: Engage during public scoping, Notice of Intent processes when applicable, and public comment periods to provide local perspectives.

  
  

• Work Together with USFS Staff: Under NEPA, county commissioners can engage as cooperating agencies to exchange data and express concerns.

• Coordinate with Stakeholders: Work with the USFS to identify recreation groups, conservation organizations, and residents.

  
  

• Monitor Implementation: Track how plans affect local roads, tourism, and natural resources over time.

  
  

Active involvement helps ensure Travel Management supports community priorities and sustainable use of public land.

Key Takeaways for County Commissioners

Travel Management Plans help the USFS to regulate motor vehicle access on public land while balancing access with resource protection. The withdrawal of the Shoshone National Forest plan after a decade shows that these processes can be complex and subject to change. County commissioners play a vital role by engaging early, collaborating with the Forest Service, and representing local interests.

Understanding how Travel Management works helps counties prepare for changes, support sustainable recreation, and protect natural assets that benefit residents and visitors alike. Staying informed and involved is the best way to influence outcomes that affect public land and local communities.