National Forests in North Carolina — Project Detail

47 projects with crawled detail · milestones · contacts · documents

National Forests in North Carolina

R08 Southern · 47 projects · crawled 2026-06-17
In Progress 6 Developing Proposal 15 On Hold 6 Completed 19 Cancelled 1
Decision Memo 27 Environmental Assessment 17 Categorical Exclusion 3
44 with documents 20 with comments page
Buck Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 5/2021 (Estimated)
Project activities are located in eastern Clay County, North Carolina · Clay, North Carolina

Preferred alternative included approximately 824 acres of silvicultural management activities and approximately 3,600 acres of prescribed burning in Clay County, North Carolina.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Watershed managementWildlife, fish, rare plants
NEPA Start Date
5/22/2020
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
Crossover Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Cheoah Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 10/2023 (Estimated)
Proposals occur in the Snowbird Mountains of Graham and Cherokee Counties, NC. · Cherokee, North Carolina

The proposal would authorize approximately 1,911 acres of management activities to improve forest structure, species composition, and age class across the Snowbird Mountains of Graham and Cherokee Counties, North Carolina.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Wildlife, fish, rare plants
NEPA Start Date
10/12/2022
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
Lomax Resource Management Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Uwharrie Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 1/2023 (Estimated)

The Uwharrie NF is proposing to conduct vegetation management and recreation improvements on the Uwharrie NF.

NEPA Start Date
1/10/2022
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
c/o Uwharrie Ranger District
Nantahala Mountains Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 11/2022 (Estimated)
Western Macon County, NC · Macon, North Carolina

The proposal includes approximately 870 acres of vegetation management actions in western Macon County, NC. Proposed actions are intended to improve forest health and resilience.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Wildlife, fish, rare plants
NEPA Start Date
11/10/2021
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
Environmental Assessment · Croatan Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 11/2021 (Estimated)

The Croatan Ranger District (RD) in North Carolina is conducting an interdisciplinary analysis and preparing an environmental assessment (EA) to determine management options to restore, stabilize, and enhance Fisher’s Landing, Flanners Beach, Pine Cliff, and Siddie Fields Recreation Areas.

NEPA Start Date
11/2/2020
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Victoria Payne · victoria.payne@usda.gov
Northside Restoration Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 8/2025 (Estimated)
The proposal would occur in the Cowee and Plott Balsam mountain ranges within Jackson, Macon, and Swain Counties of North Carolina · Macon, North Carolina

The project includes approximately 2,274 acres of vegetation management activities including a variety of silvicultural treatments and prescribed burning in the Cowee and Plott Balsam mountain ranges of North Carolina. Management activities are intended to improve forest health and resilience.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Wildlife, fish, rare plants
NEPA Start Date
8/8/2024
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
Southside Project Developing Proposal
Environmental Assessment · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 5/29/2026 · decision 2/2018 (Estimated)
Project activities occur in southern Jackson County, North Carolina · Jackson; Macon, North Carolina

Approximately 671 acres of vegetation management activities to improve forest health and resilience through a variety of silvicultural treatments and prescribed burning.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Wildlife, fish, rare plants
NEPA Start Date
2/28/2017
Finding/Decision Date
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
Categorical Exclusion · Croatan Ranger District · updated 5/7/2026
20 gate locations across the Croatan RD. · Carteret, North Carolina

The Croatan National Forest (NF) proposes to install twenty new gates to restrict motorized access along a series of unauthorized routes that branch from existing National Forest System roads.

Road management
NEPA Start Date
10/15/2025
Finding/Decision Date
4/3/2026
Victoria Payne · victoria.payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical ExclusionUSDA-01d-FSA
Decision Signed Date4/3/2026
Environmental Assessment · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 4/15/2026
High elevation red spruce-fir systems on the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests of the National Forests of North Carolina. · Buncombe; Graham; Haywood; Jackson; Macon; Mitchell; Transylvania; Yancey, North Carolina

The Cherokee National Forest, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Monongahela National Forest, and the National Forests in North Carolina seek to implement large landscape red spruce - fir ecosystem restoration.

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsForest productsVegetation management (other than forest products)Watershed managementRoad managementClimate change adaptationCarbon stewardship
Scoping Start
08/06/2024
Comment Period
01/2025 (Estimated)
Objection Period Start
04/2025 (Estimated)
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
09/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Jessie Howard · jessie.howard@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation218 (2013) Non-HFRA
Project ActivityForest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Noxious Weed Treatments; Species Population Enhancements; Road Maintenance; Road Improvements/Construction; Timber Sales (Green); Watershed Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCheoah Ranger District; Grandfather Ranger District; Pisgah Ranger District; Appalachian Ranger District; Tusquittee Ranger District; Nantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · Uwharrie Ranger District · updated 3/6/2026
Montgomery and Randoph counties; the entire boundary of the Uwharrie Ranger District. · Montgomery; Randolph, North Carolina

The Uwharrie RD is proposing a districtwide prescribed fire project. This project would include drip torches, aerial ignitions, handline, new dozer lines, etc.

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsVegetation management (other than forest products)Fuels managementWatershed management
Scoping Start
08/15/2025
Decision
02/2026 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Victoria Payne · Victoria.Payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Notice and Comment Regulation218 (2013) Non-HFRA
Project ActivityFuel Treatments (Non-Activity Fuels); Forest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Watershed Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsUwharrie Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 2/10/2026
Approximately 300-foot portion of Nantahala River Trail. Final maps and locations to be determined. · Macon, North Carolina

Conduct repairs and improvements on approximately 300 feet of Nantahala River Trail adjacent to US-19.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
07/01/2025
Decision
02/2026 (Estimated)
Implementation
12/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Viviana Ruiz · viviana.ruiz@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (4), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(4)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityTrail Management
Decision Decided Date02/10/2026
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Categorical Exclusion · Pisgah Ranger District · updated 2/9/2026 · decision 3/2026 (Estimated)
Pisgah Ranger District · Buncombe; Haywood; Henderson; Jackson; Oconee; Pickens; Transylvania, North Carolina; South Carolina

Create and maintain approximately 50 miles of fuel breaks by improving fuels conditions along a combination of existing NFS system roads and trails that would increase protection of critical infrastructure and private property during wildfires.

Fuels management
NEPA Start Date
10/1/2025
Finding/Decision Date
Chase Frisbee · randall.frisbee@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical ExclusionPub. L. 117-58, Sec. 40806
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 2/9/2026
Areas across the three Ranger Districts of the Pisgah National Forest that were damaged by Tropical Storm Helene high winds and flooding. · Avery; Buncombe; Burke; Caldwell; Haywood; Henderson; McDowell; Madison; Mitchell; Transylvania; Yancey, North Carolina

Site reparation, planting/seeding, NNIS control, and stand improvement in areas of the Pisgah National forest with tree/vegetation damage from high winds and flooding.

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsVegetation management (other than forest products)Watershed management
Scoping Start
06/23/2025
Decision
02/2026 (Estimated)
Implementation
02/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Jason Herron · jason.herron@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical ExclusionNrcs 7 Cfr 650.6 D(1); Nrcs 7 Cfr 650.6 D(11)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityForest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Noxious Weed Treatments; Watershed Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNational Forests In North Carolina All Units
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 10/21/2025
Adjacent to Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trailhead at the causeway connecting the trailhead to primary trail network. · Clay, North Carolina

Project will construct a new bridge from Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trailhead to existing trail network over a causeway with an existing, failing culvert. Project also proposes to remove failing culvert and existing causeway while recontouring slopes.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
06/30/2025
Decision
10/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Taylor Britt · Taylor.Britt@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (1), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(1)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityTrail Management
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Croatan Ranger District · updated 9/29/2025
Carteret County, NC Holland Point Recreation Residence · Carteret, North Carolina

The Croatan Ranger District is amending the Special Use Permit (SUP) CRO578803 (issued to Betsy May Brown) to extend the length of the pier allowable under the permit to 110 feet.

Special use management
Scoping Start
09/01/2025
Decision
09/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Spencer Haley · spencer.haley@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 9/23/2025
The project area is the existing approximately 8-mile powerline corridor from the southeast entrance to the Pisgah National Forest near the Sycamore Flats Recreation Area extending northwest to the Blue Ridge Parkway. · Haywood; Transylvania, North Carolina

Expansion of existing transmission line ROW and Hazard Tree Zones to 75 feet on both sides of the line for a total of up to 150 feet of combined ROW and Hazard Tree Zones (varies by Management Area).

Special use management
Scoping Start
10/19/2023
Comment Period
05/30/2024
Objection Period Start
06/22/2025
Decision
09/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
James Owen · james.owen@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation219 (2012)
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsPisgah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Cheoah Ranger District · updated 9/3/2025
Located at Johanna Bald Communication Site. · Graham, North Carolina

Authorization to replace existing communication tower with a 150-foot metal self-supporting tower and install an emergency generator with an associated propane tank to help ensure reliability of electricity to the site.

Special use management
Scoping Start
05/01/2025
Decision
09/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
09/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Robert Vance · robert.e.vance@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCheoah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 7/23/2025
Within the existing NCDOT rights-of-way (ROWs) of Hiwassee Dam Access Road (SR-1314) and Joe Brown Highway (SR-1326). · Cherokee, North Carolina

Permit Peachtree Broadband Fiber to install by burial 19,192 linear feet of fiber optic cable (approximately 3.64 miles) within the existing NCDOT rights-of-way (ROWs) of Hiwassee Dam Access Road (SR-1314) and Joe Brown Highway (SR-1326).

Special use management
Scoping Start
05/16/2025
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
12/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Robert Vance · robert.e.vance@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (2), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(2); 32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityElectric Transmission
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 7/22/2025
Macon County, NC at 3061 Dillard Rd & Highlands Distribution 106E · Cherokee, North Carolina

Proposed fiber optic cable will be co-located on an existing Haywood Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) utility line poles in Macon County, NC. Install approximately 2,379 ft of fiber at two locations: Highlands Distribution 106E & 3061 Dillard Rd

Facility management
Scoping Start
05/12/2025
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Taylor Britt · taylor.britt@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (2), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(2)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityElectric Transmission
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 7/10/2025
Wilson Lake vicinity in Macon County, NC · Macon, North Carolina

Remove upper and lower dams of Wilson Lake. Stream channels and adjacent land to be rehabilitated. Stream channel structures proposed to prevent erosion/stabilize affected areas. Unclassified road prism decommission and white pine to be removed.

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsWatershed management
Scoping Start
04/01/2024
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Taylor Britt · Taylor.Britt@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (6), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(6); 32.2 (18), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(18); 32.2 (20), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(20)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecies Habitat Improvements; Watershed Improvements
Wilson Lake Dam Decommissioning ProjectDecision Signed Date: 07/10/2025
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Croatan CWRRP Mastication Developing Proposal
Decision Memo · Croatan Ranger District · updated 6/30/2025
Various locations throughout the Croatan RD. · Carteret; Craven; Jones, North Carolina

This project includes mastication of land within WUI on the Croatan NF in order to create a defensible barrier for fire efforts.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)Fuels management
Scoping Start
08/2025 (Estimated)
Decision
11/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Victoria Payne · Victoria.Payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (6), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(6)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityFuel Treatments (Non-Activity Fuels); Forest Vegetation Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Croatan Ranger District · updated 6/30/2025
Havelock, NC · Craven, North Carolina

To approve an amendment to the Duke Energy Progress existing special use authorization. This amendment will allow DEP to place underground powerlines southeast of Havelock underneath Highway 70 and to install a new switch and associated structures.

Special use management
Scoping Start
04/04/2025
Decision
11/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
12/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Victoria Payne · Victoria.Payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 5/21/2025
Select locations within the Appalachian and Grandfather Ranger Districts · Avery; Buncombe; Burke; Caldwell; Haywood; McDowell; Madison; Mitchell; Watauga; Yancey, North Carolina

The purpose and need for this emergency response is to complete urgent debris removal actions following the Tropical Storm Helene incident.

Fuels management
Scoping Start
02/14/2025
Decision
05/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
05/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Lauren Onofrio · Lauren.Onofrio@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (19), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(19); Nrcs 7 Cfr 650.6 D(7); Nrcs 7 Cfr 650.6 D(11)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityFuel Treatments (Non-Activity Fuels); Forest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Timber Sales (Salvage)
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsGrandfather Ranger District; Appalachian Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · Croatan Ranger District · updated 3/26/2025
Craven County, NC. · Craven, North Carolina

The Croatan NF proposes the Camp Patterson CCC Interpretive Trail project which aims to preserve and showcase the rich history of the CCC camp while providing an educational and immersive experience for visitors.

Recreation managementHeritage resource management
Scoping Start
09/2025 (Estimated)
Comment Period
11/2025 (Estimated)
Objection Period Start
01/2026 (Estimated)
Decision
03/2026 (Estimated)
Implementation
05/2026 (Estimated)
Project documents
Victoria Payne · Victoria.Payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation218 (2013) Non-HFRA
Project ActivityDeveloped Site Management; Heritage Resource Management; Trail Management; Road Improvements/Construction
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Appalachian Ranger District · updated 3/25/2025
Big Ivy Road - FSR 74 · Buncombe, North Carolina

Repair of road damage that occurred during Tropical Storm Fred including replacing several culverts with structures that improve Aquatic Organism Passage

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsWatershed managementRoad management
Scoping Start
03/27/2024
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
09/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
James Jones · james.b.jones@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (4), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(4); 32.2 (18), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(18)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityRoad Maintenance; Road Improvements/Construction
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsAppalachian Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Lickstone Project In Progress
Environmental Assessment · Pisgah Ranger District · updated 3/25/2025
The Lickstone Project Area is comprised of all FS lands of the Pisgah Ranger District East of Lickstone Ridge which is approximately 25 miles southwest of Canton, NC. · Haywood, North Carolina

The Lickstone Project is a forest vegetation, wildlife habitat, and watershed management project.

Land management planningWildlife, fish, rare plantsForest productsVegetation management (other than forest products)Watershed management
Scoping Start
05/27/2022
Comment Period
06/17/2024
Objection Period Start
04/2025 (Estimated)
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Jason Herron · jason.herron@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation219 (2012)
Project ActivityForest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Noxious Weed Treatments; Timber Sales (Green); Watershed Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsPisgah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Appalachian Ranger District · updated 1/7/2025
Appalachian Trail near Log Cabin · Madison, North Carolina

The proposed action is to relocate approximately 1.13 miles of trail to avoid private property.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
12/04/2020
Decision
09/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
06/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Michael Good · Michael.Good@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (1), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(1)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityTrail Management
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsAppalachian Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 11/29/2024
The Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery is located in Pisgah National Forest on National Forest land and is leased and operated by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). · Transylvania, North Carolina

The proposed action includes replacing the dated and failing infrastructure of the existing fish hatchery and improving operational efficiency and healthy yield of fish.

Special use management
Scoping Start
02/28/2022
Comment Period
09/17/2023
Objection Period Start
02/05/2024
Decision
08/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
11/2024 (Estimated)
Project documents
Allyson Conner · allyson.conner@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation218 (2013) Non-HFRA
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsPisgah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Appalachian Ranger District · updated 6/25/2024
Rube Rock Tr 314 and Groundhog Creek Tr 315 between Interstate 40 and Skiffley Creek Rd FS 357. Retain trail portions between Skiffley Creek Rd and Appalachian Trail for road access. · Haywood, North Carolina

Remove these trails from system as they are unmaintained, are not utilized, in disrepair, and are on unsustainable layout.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
06/2025 (Estimated)
Decision
09/2025 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Natalia Muglia · Natalia.Muglia@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (20), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(20)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityTrail Management
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsAppalachian Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · Croatan Ranger District · updated 3/29/2024
Croatan Ranger District · Craven, North Carolina

The proposal requests to relocate approximately 10,990 feet of the Havelock 23kV Feeder (along existing maintained roads) and decommission approximately 8,200 feet of existing inaccessible overhead distribution line within Croatan National Forest.

Special use management
Scoping Start
04/2024 (Estimated)
Comment Period
08/2024 (Estimated)
Objection Period Start
10/2024 (Estimated)
Decision
12/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2025 (Estimated)
Project documents
Victoria Payne · Victoria.Payne@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 3/25/2024
The marina is on the west side of Hiwassee Lake off State Route 1314 Hiwassee Dam Access Road. · Cherokee, North Carolina

Issue an updated Special Use Permit for the Harbor Cove Marina along the shore of Hiwassee Lake.

Special use management
Scoping Start
01/05/2024
Decision
03/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2024 (Estimated)
Project documents
Taylor Britt · Taylor.Britt@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (11), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(11)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
Decision Decided Date03/25/2024
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 12/14/2023
The bridge over Hanging Dog Creek on Joe Brown Highway (SR 1326) in Cherokee County, North Carolina, northwest of Murphy. · Cherokee, North Carolina

The proposed action is to replace the one-lane bridge on SR 1326, Joe Brown Hwy, over Hanging Dog Creek, with a 2-lane bridge. This would also straighten the curve on the western bridge approach.

Special use managementRoad management
Scoping Start
01/2024 (Estimated)
Decision
08/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2024 (Estimated)
Project documents
Allyson Conner · Allyson.Conner@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations; Road Maintenance; Road Improvements/Construction
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Appalachian Ranger District · updated 9/12/2023
Roan Mountain rhododendron gardens · Mitchell, North Carolina

The proposed action includes replacement of a water line from well, to a new pumphouse, to the holding tank and distribution lines. This project will also include some road repair and paving.

Facility managementRoad management
Scoping Start
05/13/2022
Decision
09/2023 (Estimated)
Implementation
11/2023 (Estimated)
Project documents
David McFee · david.mcfee@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (4), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(4); 32.12 (5), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(5)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityFacility Maintenance; Road Maintenance; Road Improvements/Construction
Decision Decided Date09/12/2023
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsAppalachian Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · Cheoah Ranger District · updated 9/20/2022
NC 143 from the Cherohala Skyway to SR1127 at Robbinsville · Graham, North Carolina

NCDOT has proposed making improvements to NC 143 from the Cherohala Skyway to SR1127 at Robbinsville in Graham County. Portions of this project are located on National Forest System lands. Project currently on hold pending additional DOT funding.

Special use management
Scoping Start
11/29/2012
Comment Period
09/06/2020
Decision
09/2024 (Estimated)
Implementation
12/2024 (Estimated)
Project documents
Allyson Conner · Allyson.Conner@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNepa Document Prepared By Another Federal Agency
Notice and Comment Regulation215
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCheoah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 9/1/2022
Off Meetinghouse Mountain Road near Lake Santeetlah in Graham County, North Carolina. · Graham, North Carolina

Grant access across National Forest System lands on the Cheoah Ranger District in Graham County, North Carolina for vehicular access to private lands.

Special use management
Scoping Start
08/2022 (Estimated)
Decision
12/2022 (Estimated)
Implementation
12/2022 (Estimated)
Project documents
Robert Vance · robert.e.vance@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCheoah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 3/27/2022
North of Franklin, NC, one mile above the Nantahala Outdoor Center along U.S. Highway 19. · Swain, North Carolina

The proposed action is to replace power lines along U.S. Hwy 19 between Wesser Road and Silver Mine Road. Most of the work will occur within the existing NCDOT right-of-way.

Special use management
Scoping Start
11/19/2020
Decision
10/2022 (Estimated)
Implementation
10/2022 (Estimated)
Project documents
Joseph Wood · joseph.wood@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 12/14/2021
Select WL openings on the Nantahala and Tusquitee Ranger Districts. · Cherokee; Macon, North Carolina

The proposed action is to conduct rehabilitate select existing wildlife openings on the Nantahala and Tusquitee Ranger Districts in Macon and Cherokee Counties, NC.

Wildlife, fish, rare plantsVegetation management (other than forest products)
Scoping Start
10/2021 (Estimated)
Decision
01/2022 (Estimated)
Implementation
01/2022 (Estimated)
Project documents
Jason Farmer · jason.farmer@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (6), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(6)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityForest Vegetation Improvements; Species Habitat Improvements; Noxious Weed Treatments
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District; Nantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Cheoah Ranger District · updated 9/29/2021
Within the Joyce Kilmer Slickrock Wilderness, but confined to the interior of an existing structure that predates wilderness designation. There would be no change to wilderness characteristics. · Graham, North Carolina

The proposed action is to repair the concrete reservoir that supplies water to the flush restrooms at Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on the Cheoah Ranger District in Graham County, NC. Restrooms are currently closed to public use.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
06/01/2021
Decision
07/2021 (Estimated)
Implementation
07/2021 (Estimated)
Project documents
Heath Emmons · heath.e.emmons@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (5), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(5)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityDeveloped Site Management; Wilderness Management
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCheoah Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Environmental Assessment · Pisgah Ranger District · updated 6/23/2021
Analysis Area 13 · Haywood; Transylvania, North Carolina

The proposal includes vegetation, recreation, and fuels management activities in Analysis Area 13 on the Pisgah Ranger District.

Forest productsVegetation management (other than forest products)
Scoping Start
09/26/2011
Comment Period
12/19/2012
Decision
09/2013 (Estimated)
Implementation
05/2014 (Estimated)
Project documents
Jason Herron · jherron@fs.fed.us
NEPA / regulatory detail
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation215
Project ActivityForest Vegetation Improvements; Timber Sales (Green)
Courthouse CreekDecision Signed Date: 09/23/2013 Legal Notice Date: 09/25/2013
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsPisgah Ranger District
Decision Memo · Tusquittee Ranger District · updated 12/3/2020
Selected stands that meet criteria as supporting a majority of off-site white pine on National Forest System lands in Cherokee County, NC. · Cherokee, North Carolina

The proposed action includes planting and regeneration treatments in stands that are dominated by off-site white pine and which are at risk of insect infestation.

Vegetation management (other than forest products)
Scoping Start
03/2021 (Estimated)
Decision
11/2021 (Estimated)
Implementation
11/2021 (Estimated)
Project documents
Steverson Moffat · steverson.moffat@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.3 (5)
Special AuthorityHfra Title Vi: Insect And Disease Projects
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecies Population Enhancements; Timber Sales (Green)
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsTusquittee Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 2/15/2018
Highlands Work Center, located off State Road 1544 (Flat Mountain Road) 2.4 air-miles northwest of the Town of Highlands. · Macon, North Carolina

Sell the lands and buildings that comprise the Work Center for the former Highlands Ranger District, Macon County, North Carolina.

Land ownership management
Scoping Start
06/29/2015
Decision
02/2018 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2018 (Estimated)
Project documents
Dan Belanger · dbelanger@fs.fed.us
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (7), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(7)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityLand Use Adjustments
Decision Decided Date02/15/2018
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 3/29/2016
Linville Gorge Trailheads · Burke; McDowell, North Carolina

The proposed action is to issue a forest order for camping restrictions at specific trailheads on the Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest to provide a safe user experience and resource protection.

Recreation management
Scoping Start
01/11/2016
Decision
02/2016 (Estimated)
Implementation
03/2016 (Estimated)
Project documents
Nicholas Larson · nicholaslarson@fs.fed.us
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (1), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(1)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityDeveloped Site Management; Dispersed Recreation Mgmt.; Trail Management
Decision Decided Date02/22/2016
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsGrandfather Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · National Forests In North Carolina All Units · updated 2/29/2016
Croatan NF · Carteret; Craven; Jones, North Carolina

Update to the Croatan NF Monitoring Program

Land management planning
Scoping Start
02/29/2016
Decision
01/1970 (Estimated)
Implementation
05/2016 (Estimated)
Project documents
Michelle Aldridge · michelle.aldridge@usda.gov
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.11, 7 Cfr 1B.3(A) (1)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityPlan Amendment
Decision Decided Date06/17/2026
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsCroatan Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Decision Memo · Nantahala Ranger District · updated 9/29/2005
Nantahala River - Macon County · Macon, North Carolina

The proposed action is to fell several trees into the upper Nantahala River in order to improve habitat for aquatic resources.

Watershed management
Scoping Start
03/01/2005
Implementation
07/2005 (Estimated)
Decision
07/2005 (Estimated)
Project documents
Joan Brown · jbrown01@fs.fed.us
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.2 (7), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(7)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecies Habitat Improvements
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsNantahala Ranger District
Decision Memo · Appalachian Ranger District · updated 6/18/2005
Murray Branch Day-use Recreation Facility - near Hot Springs, NC · Madison, North Carolina

Removal of hazard trees at Murray Branch day-use recreation site

Facility management
Scoping Start
04/17/2005
Decision
04/2005 (Estimated)
Implementation
05/2005 (Estimated)
Project documents
David McFee · dmcfee@fs.fed.us
NEPA / regulatory detail
Categorical Exclusion32.12 (5), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(5)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityFacility Maintenance
ForestsNational Forests In North Carolina
DistrictsAppalachian Ranger District