Shawnee TRAILS Act

This bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to keep at least 20% of all trails in the Shawnee National Forest open for trail riding by “covered vehicles” (as defined in the bill) and to actively manage those trails so they’re maintained for recreation while minimizing harm to natural resources. It also says at least one such trail must stay open at all times for these vehicles, and it blocks the agency from banning covered vehicles on paved roads within the forest.

Key points

• Where: Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.
• What changes: At least 20% of trails must be designated and maintained for trail riding by covered vehicles; at least one trail must always remain open; covered vehicles cannot be banned from paved roads in the forest.
• Oversight: The agency must monitor these trails to balance recreation with protecting natural resources.