In Chief Moore’s January message, he talked about the notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement to amend all 128 forest land management plans. This proposed national amendment would create a framework that can be applied to local ecosystems to conserve and steward old-growth forest conditions.

I wanted to share an update as I know many of you have questions about what's being accomplished, what’s next and what this means for your forest or region. A national old-growth amendment website is now available and can serve as a resource for you and our public audiences who may have questions.

Old-growth forests are highly complex. They serve as critical life support systems, constantly contributing to air, soil and water quality. They capture and retain carbon, support critical water storage and delivery for communities, provide diverse wildlife habitat and reduce wildfire risk in some forest types. These extraordinary forests also attract recreation visitors, stimulate local economies, and reflect diverse tribal and unique cultural uses and values.

As the Chief highlighted in his message, Indigenous perspectives emphasize how the decisions people make today determine what will be here for future generations. That is why this amendment, which provides guidance for consistent land management decisions regarding stewardship of old-growth forest conditions, is so important. I continue to learn how our instincts to measure, quantify and monitor are not always aligned with Indigenous and intrinsic values and perspectives. While I acknowledge change can be challenging, we are actively improving our integration of Indigenous knowledge as a source of best available science.  

The amendment proposes a path toward increased wildfire resistance, climate adaptation, tribal inclusion, sustainable communities and overall forest health. It is adaptive and complements the agency’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy, factoring in flexibility for geographic differences and unique local ecosystems and conditions.

Throughout this process of developing a national amendment, we are working closely with forests, states, counties, tribes and Alaska Native Corporations. I cannot emphasize enough the value we place on grassroots-level input and the recommendations of those who are closest to the land.

We anticipate sharing the draft environmental impact statement this summer, which will initiate a 90-day public comment period. We will hold an all-employee call in the coming months to share information and answer your questions.  

I am deeply committed to ensuring that future generations have many opportunities, in forests around the country, to experience the wonder and majesty of our nation’s old-growth forests. The proposed national old growth amendment is an important step in achieving that goal. This effort, working closely with tribes and our partners, is a critical step toward collaboratively conserving and stewarding our nation’s old-growth forests for many years to come.  

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