16 U.S.C. § 1612 — Public participation

(a) Adequate notice and opportunity to comment In exercising his authorities under this subchapter and other laws applicable to the Forest Service, the Secretary, by regulation, must establish procedures, including public hearings where appropriate, to give the Federal, State, and local governments and the public adequate notice and an opportunity to comment upon the formulation of standards, criteria, and guidelines applicable to Forest Service programs. (b) Advisory boards In providing for public participation in the planning for and management of the National Forest System, the Secretary, under chapter 10 of title 5 and other applicable law, must establish and consult such advisory boards as he deems necessary to secure full information and advice on the execution of his responsibilities. The membership of such boards must be representative of a cross section of groups interested in the planning for and management of the National Forest System and the various types of use and enjoyment of the lands of it.