Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines and Integration of Direction on Accessibility Into Forest Service Manual 2350

The Forest Service is proposing to issue an interim directive to guide its employees regarding compliance with the Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG). The interim directive would ensure that new or altered trails managed for pedestrian use on National Forest System lands are developed to maximize accessibility for all people, including people with disabilities, while recognizing and protecting the unique characteristics of the natural setting of each trail. The interim directive, to be issued to Forest Service Manual 2350, Trail, River, and Similar Recreation Opportunities, would direct that these trails comply with the FSTAG and applicable Federal laws, regulations, and guidelines. The interim directive also would incorporate the definition of a wheelchair and clarify that a mobility device meeting this definition may be used anywhere foot travel is permitted. In addition, the interim directive would clarify existing internal agency procedures and policies related to the accessibility of trails. The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) is preparing to publish for public comment proposed accessibility guidelines for outdoor developed areas that would apply only to Federal agencies subject to the Architectural Barriers Act. The Forest Service will finalize the direction in this interim directive regarding compliance with the FSTAG when the Access Board finalizes its accessibility guidelines for outdoor developed areas. The final FSTAG would contain the Access Board’s final accessibility guidelines for outdoor developed areas managed by Federal agencies, as supplemented by the Forest Service. Comments received in response to this notice will be considered in development of the final interim directive. In a related notice published elsewhere in this part of today’s Federal Register, the Forest Service is requesting comment on a proposed interim directive to guide its employees regarding compliance with the Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG).