The proposed changes could increase wildfire risks in California's national forests, particularly near roads where ignition densities are highest. Scientists have mapped 26 years of fire ignitions along 850 miles of roads in forests such as Angeles, San Bernardino, Los Padres, and Cleveland, revealing that roadsides are hotspots for human-caused fires. Environmental advocates warn that opening roadless areas to development may endanger rural communities and escalate firefighting costs. Additionally, critics argue that the plan could compromise key watersheds and wildlife habitats, while failing to address the maintenance of existing roads.