When a new road must be built to access forest management operations or new recreational opportunities, an engineer determines where the road should be placed, designed, and how it is constructed for the intended use, current standards, maintenance, and investment service life. Experienced road builders aid in construction and hydrologic designs to assure the road durability is optimized and environmental effects are reduced.

Forest roads are periodically monitored and maintained to ensure their safe and stable condition for the planned use and timing for each segment.  Oregon forest regulations require maintenance standards for different road uses and situations.  Forest roads serve many purposes, and have diverse owner objectives, including public recreation, forest protection, or management operations.  Each use and purpose may demand a unique set of maintenance activities. During active forest management operations or recreation travel, maintenance frequency increases to accomplish safe use while protecting the watershed and road investment.  A smooth and stable road surface is created by a forest road maintenance professional.