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National Forest System Mapping and Data

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Land Status Map Viewer

The Forest Service provides accurate maps and data showing land ownership, property rights, special designations, and boundaries for National Forests and Grasslands. This information, known as “Land Status,” helps manage these public lands and the natural resources they contain. The data is stored in the Land Status Records System (LSRS) and can be viewed through the Land Status Map Viewer—a web-based tool that lets users explore maps, search for details, and view information alongside background imagery and reference layers.

Forests By the Numbers

The Forests By the Numbers Spatial and Statistical Dashboard displays the total acreage of lands managed by the Forest Service across administrative and political boundaries. The data are refreshed annually between October and November. It acts as a companion to the data found in The Land Areas of the National Forest System Report (LAR).

Land Status Geographic Information System (GIS) Data

Forest Service Land Status data, along with other map layers, is available in several formats for use with GIS (Geographic Information System) software. These datasets allow for advanced mapping and analysis. You can find and access this data from the websites listed below.

Land Status Reports

Land Areas of the National Forest System thumbnail

The Forest Service uses Land Status data to create official reports about the size and location of National Forest System lands. You can learn more on the websites listed below.

One key report is the Land Areas of the National Forest System Report (LAR) which shows the official acreage of National Forest lands and special areas like Wilderness. This report is based on authoritative landownership and boundary data and is updated every year at the end of the federal fiscal year. It includes acreage by Forest Service unit, state, county, and congressional district.

This data also supports federal programs like Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and Secure Rural Schools (SRS). These programs provide funding to local governments to offset lost property tax revenue from tax-exempt federal lands. The money helps pay for schools, roads, and other essential services.