The USDA’s June 2025 decision to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule (Roadless Rule) marks a significant policy shift with direct consequences for agriculture and agricultural real estate. Those involved in livestock production and utilization of resources on public lands, and land investment, must focus on how these changes will shape access, value, and operational viability in rural America.

Agricultural Access

Access is critical for livestock producers and agricultural operations. Under the Roadless Rule, restrictions on road construction often limited the ability of ranchers to effectively manage cattle on federal allotments. Roads are more than paths through the forest; they are lifelines for transporting feed, hauling livestock, maintaining water infrastructure, and ensuring ranchers can reach grazing allotments. Improved access may also reduce costs associated with grazing on public land. This efficiency translates directly into higher profitability, making agricultural real estate tied to grazing rights more attractive to buyers and investors.

Grazing Allotments and Property Value

The value of ranchlands is often tied to access to federal grazing permits. When those permits are hampered by limited infrastructure, the real estate market discounts the property. Conversely, when access improves, so too does land value. The removal of the Roadless Rule reopens possibilities for infrastructure development, which could make federal grazing permits and the ranches they are attached to more valuable and operationally practical.

With the rescission of the Roadless Rule, ranches that border or rely on grazing allotments may see a bump in valuation due to enhanced usability of adjacent lands.

Regional Impacts

Colorado

Colorado contains over 4 million acres of inventoried roadless areas. In regions such as the San Juan and White River National Forests, grazing operations often rely on seasonal access that was limited under the Roadless Rule. For agricultural real estate, properties tied to these permits may see increased value as usability expands.

Wyoming

Wyoming’s ranching economy is closely tied to Forest Service allotments. The University of Wyoming has noted that rescission of the Roadless Rule aligns with principles of federalism and may strengthen local decision-making. For real estate markets, this could stabilize or increase valuations in regions like the Bridger-Teton, where access has long been a challenge.

Montana

Montana’s mix of cattle ranching and timber production means the rescission of the Roadless Rule could have dual impacts. While ranchers gain from improved infrastructure and grazing access, increased logging or mining activity nearby may also expand local economies and create opportunities for landowners.

Risks and Uncertainty

Despite the opportunities, the rescission also introduces risk. Environmental lawsuits have already been filed, and some states may impose their own restrictive policies. For landowners and buyers, this creates uncertainty: will today’s access improvements be reversed tomorrow by court order or a change in administration?

A Note to Agricultural Stakeholders

For agricultural stakeholders, the key question is not just how these changes will affect today’s operations, but how to position for the future. Ranchers, farmers, and landowners should:

• Reevaluate Property Values: Consider how improved access to federal allotments may increase property values and long-term viability.

• Monitor State-Level Developments: Some states may attempt to reimpose restrictions. Staying ahead of these shifts will be critical for land planning and investment.

• Plan for Litigation Outcomes: Court challenges could alter or delay implementation. Buyers and lenders should factor in these risks when valuing agricultural real estate.

Ultimately, agricultural real estate professionals, landowners, and rural communities must stay engaged in the regulatory process to ensure property rights and economic viability remain central in the evolving management of federally controlled lands.

Public Comment Period

The USDA is accepting public comments on the Roadless Rule rescission until September 19, 2025. Farmers, ranchers, and landowners should speak up to ensure federal policy reflects the needs of rural America, not just outside interest groups. Strong participation from our industry will help safeguard access, protect property rights, and keep agriculture viable for generations to come.

Links

University of Wyoming: The Long Road to Rescinding the Roadless Rule: https://www.uwyo.edu/law/centers/center-for-land-and-water-law/blog/long-road-rescinding-roadless-rule.html

USDA: Secretary Rollins Rescinds Roadless Rule: https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/06/23/secretary-rollins-rescinds-roadless-rule-eliminating-impediment-responsible-forest-management

Montana Free Press: USDA Starts Rolling up Landmark ‘Roadless Rule’: https://montanafreepress.org/2025/09/01/usda-starts-rolling-up-landmark-roadless-rule/

EarthJustice: Trump Administration Attempt to Repeal Roadless Rule Met with Widespread Opposition: https://earthjustice.org/press/2025/trump-administration-attempt-to-repeal-roadless-rule-met-with-widespread-opposition

Reuters: Trump Administration to Open Undeveloped Forests to Mining, Logging: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/trump-administration-rescind-policy-protecting-undeveloped-forests-2025-06-23/