 National Forest sign (photo by jhy) |
from the Forst Service response
The USDA Forest Service has posted official responses to many of the criticisms of the restructuring plan. Some of those will be listed here.
In response to the moving of some offices, the FS says: "The Forest Service’s facilities footprint is extensive and significantly larger than can be supported under current congressional appropriations, which are declining for facilities — approximately $37 million less in FY 2026 compared to FY 2025. Deferred maintenance has grown to $3 billion, and retaining a footprint we cannot adequately maintain would not be responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. To operate efficiently and to invest in safe, functional workspaces for employees, the Forest Service must reduce its overall facilities footprint."
There is concern that forest research will become limited. The response states: "The reorganization does not eliminate scientific positions, cancel research programs, or reduce our national research footprint. In many locations, “closure” refers only to individual buildings currently housing small teams. Staff and programs will continue their work, relocated into fewer facilities while maintaining research presence across the country.
"It's important to note that staffing and facilities are funded separately, and closing a facility does not mean the work stops. In many cases staff will move to another local facility, service center, or forest office. This reorganization is focused on rebuilding staff capacity at the field level to deliver the work that builds forest health and improves visitor services."
GOTC is neither criticizing nor defending the federal decisions. The aim is to provide information as these, no doubt, difficult moves will be carried out. For the complete text of the response, follow the link above.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid
Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch
