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MARCH 28, 2001

US Forest Service chief Mike Dombeck on Tuesday announced he is stepping down from his position but recommended the US Department of Agriculture not settle lawsuits challenging a controversial plan to limit road-buildling in federal forests.

A number of Western states, timber interests, and at least one tribe are opposing the plan, which affects nearly 60 million acres of forest land. The Bush administration has delayed its effective implemention until May 12, at which time it may choose to scrap the initiative or defend it.

Dombeck was one of the key forces behind the plan. Secretary Ann Veneman has been recused from making decisions on it because she represented a group who lobbied against it.

Get the Story:
Clinton's Forest Service chief leaves Bush administration (AP 3/27)

Relevant Links:
Roadless Forest Plan - roadless.fs.fed.us

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