UW study: Ditching Roadless Rule would degrade drinking water

Ending the roadless rule would put this precious WA resource at risk

In Washington roadless areas protect over 3,600 miles of river flowing through healthy, intact forests, from which 6% of the state gets its drinking water.

UW study: Ditching Roadless Rule would degrade drinking water

Public support of the Roadless Rule is overwhelming. Will the federal government listen to its people? Water world: Idaho’s 130,500-acre Borah Peak Roadless Area contains seven of the state’s nine summits that exceed 12,000 feet elevation. And lots of water. Photo: Jason D.B. Kauffman By Kendra Chamberlain. August 11, 2026. Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture gave the public just 21 days to weigh in on Agriculture Secretary Brooke Roll…