As we celebrate Presidents Day, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to each of you. Your commitment to caring for the land and serving the American people reflects the very best of our public service tradition. Every day, you bring professionalism, integrity and heart to a mission that matters deeply to our communities.

As our country marks its 250th anniversary this year, we are reminded of the presidents who shaped our nation. The holiday began as a recognition of George Washington’s birthday and later included Abraham Lincoln’s. Today, Presidents' Day offers us a moment to reflect on the office of the presidency and the leaders who have guided our country through growth, challenges and change.

For the Forest Service, that history is especially meaningful. Our very existence is tied to President Theodore Roosevelt, whose conservation legacy established millions of acres of public lands, including many national forests we manage today. President Benjamin Harrison initiated this effort with the Forest Reserves Act of 1891, and President Grover Cleveland expanded these reserves, including the Black Hills. Each administration since has brought its own priorities, and throughout, the Forest Service has worked closely with the Office of the President to fulfill our mission.

Today, under President Trump’s leadership, we are working to build a stronger, healthier and more productive National Forest System. This includes restoring forests and grasslands through active management, becoming a more efficient and responsive agency, and strengthening the partnerships with tribes, states, counties, industry and conservation organizations that help us make better decisions and deliver better service to the American public. We are also expanding access to recreation so more people can experience the places we love and care for. Together, these efforts support a future where our forests thrive as resilient, productive ecosystems that power America with clean water, outdoor opportunities and shared prosperity—managed in partnership with the communities we serve.

As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary through 2026, this February holiday is an opportunity to honor the presidents who shaped our conservation legacy and to recognize your ongoing efforts to carry that legacy forward, year after year.

Enjoy the holiday, and thank you for everything you do to uphold the mission and values of the Forest Service.

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