1994 Northwest Forest Plan

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In 1994, the comprehensive Northwest Forest Plan was established to protect threatened and endangered species while also contributing to economic stability on federal forest land in the Pacific Northwest. It used an innovative landscape approach based on ecosystem and watershed management that transcended traditional administrative boundaries.

Implementing the Northwest Forest Plan has required close coordination among participating federal agencies and with states, tribes, and local governments. Federal agencies work together through a Memorandum of Understanding and the Regional Interagency Executive Committee, which provides leadership for: 

• Cooperative planning, improved decision making, and coordinated implementation of the Northwest Forest Plan on federal lands.
• Improved coordination and collaboration with state, tribal, and local governments for management approaches that support or complement the goals of the Northwest Forest Plan.  

For detailed background information please visit the Regional Ecosystem Office - Northwest Forest Plan website.

Regional Ecosystem Office - Northwest Forest Plan Website

Enduring Legacies and Progress

Created an Interagency Monitoring Program that tracks long-term data and produces regular reports regarding the effectiveness of the plan direction. 

Retained Older Forests & Habitats through conservation measures that have sustained centuries-old conifers, mature forests, and associated habitat. 

Established an Aquatic Conservation Strategy designed to conserve aquatic habitats that provide clean and cold water, which at-risk species rely on. 

Shifted toward a Shared Ecosystem Approach by creating landscape-scale forest management practices that benefit people, plants and animals. 

View a summary of accomplishments (PDF, 210 KB)