Forest Service Restructuring Causing Concern

map of new FS regions (graphic from the USDA Forest Service)

primarily from the Forest Service Restructuring Factsheet

In the past few days there has been a flurry of emotionally charged news articles about the retructuring of the USDA Forest Service and, principally, its research facilities. No one probably can fully say how this will play out.

The final paragraph in the factsheet states, "Throughout the transition, frontline mission work will continue uninterrupted. This includes active forest management, wildfire response, forest and watershed restoration, recreation services, and sustained collaboration with States, Tribes, and communities."

Certain changes are that the primary Forest Service headquarters will move from Washington, DC, to Salt Lake City, UT. The Department of Agriculture states that this puts their "leadership and decision making closer to the forests and communities it serves."

All four research facilities in Michigan: Houghton and L'Anse in the Upper Peninsula and, East Lansing and Wellston in the Lower Peninsula will close. Midwest research will be done in Wisconsin and Ohio.

Many people involved in forest research are speculating that the ultimate result will be a reduction in service. Years of research into local forest problems and pests will be shifted farther from the issues.

The Forest Service officially characterizes the plan: "The Forest Service is transitioning from a legacy regional structure to a State-based organizational model designed to simplify the chain of command, strengthen local partnerships, and give field leaders greater ability to respond to conditions on the ground. Under this model, 15 State directors will oversee Forest Service operations within one or more States and will serve as national leaders for forest supervisors, operational priorities, and relationships with States, Tribes, and partners. Each State Office will include a small leadership team responsible for legislative affairs, communications, and intergovernmental coordination."

See an article in the Lansing State Journal


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