Some forests such as wilderness areas and other forests managed on a custodial management regime do not permit or require road access. But, most forest landowners like to drive into or through their forest. In many cases, existing roads were located and constructed many decades ago, and the landowners feel no cause for concern. But, many of these old roads are improperly located and constructed. Roads having obvious maintenance and environmental problems should be evaluated for usability and closed or relocated as necessary.
Forest roads are essential to many facets of forest management.
The number of entries into a forest necessary to conduct intensive forest management activities requires that adequate forest roads be constructed and maintained. Forest roads are good fire breaks and they provide access for fire-fighting equipment. Periodic inspection for insects and disease is also facilitated by a good road system. Recreational pursuits such as hunting and camping are more easily pursued if a forest has a good road system. Intermediate and final cuttings are used by the forest manager as a silvicultural tool, and practically all methods of timber harvesting require that a system of temporary, permanent, and all-weather roads be available.