Understanding the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act

Definition & Meaning

The Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act (RPA) is a federal law enacted in 1974 in the United States. Its primary purpose is to promote the sustainable management of renewable resources on national forest lands. The Act empowers the U.S. Forest Service to engage in long-term planning to ensure the availability of forest resources while also protecting the environment. Under the RPA, the Forest Service is required to conduct a renewable resource assessment and develop a comprehensive plan for managing natural resources every ten and five years, respectively.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a local forest management plan developed under the RPA might include strategies for timber harvesting, wildlife habitat preservation, and recreational use of forest lands. Another example could be the assessment of forest health and biodiversity conducted by the U.S. Forest Service to inform future resource management decisions. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
National Forest Management Act A law that governs the administration of national forests. Focuses specifically on forest management plans, while the RPA emphasizes broader renewable resource assessments.
National Environmental Policy Act A law requiring federal agencies to assess environmental effects before making decisions. NEPA is broader in scope, addressing all federal actions, whereas the RPA specifically targets renewable resources.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in land management or resource planning, familiarize yourself with the RPA and its requirements. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates and forms that can assist in compliance with the Act. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional with expertise in environmental law may be necessary.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Enacted 1974
Assessment Frequency Every ten years
Planning Frequency Every five years
Primary Agency U.S. Forest Service

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The RPA aims to ensure sustainable management of renewable resources on national forest lands while maintaining environmental quality.