Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Privacy
Privacy
The U.S. Forest Service is required to comply with all current applicable Federal privacy laws, regulations, and guidance and must establish and apply data safeguards. Protecting Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is the one of the agency’s primary focuses. The U.S. Forest Service has devised, and adheres to, a Code of Fair Information Privacy Principles the agency’s web policy; disclosure of data collection and minimization practices; and independent audits.
Under the Privacy Act of 1974, members of the public may request copies of any U.S. Forest Service records that are about them and that are filed and can be retrieved by their name or a personal identifier (i.e. a Social Security Number). Members of the public can also ask the U.S. Forest Service to correct records that are inaccurate, incomplete, untimely, or irrelevant. For information about U.S. Forest Service records, visit the the U.S. Forest Service Freedom of Information Act web page.
Privacy Laws, Regulations, and Guidance
Advisory Group
The U.S. Forest Service formed an interdisciplinary Unmanned Aircraft Systems Advisory Group (UASAG) by official charter in September, 2012. The UASAG is comprised of subject matter experts with backgrounds in aviation management and safety; remote sensing; information technology and geographic information systems; natural resource management programs; law enforcement; and research and development.
The UASAG is primarily responsible for reviewing and recommending agency policy relating to the procurement and utilization of UAS platforms and associated technologies and conducting UAS missions. In addition, it is responsible for development of strategic planning and guidance documentation for the implementation of UAS platforms and associated technologies within the U.S. Forest Service. The work of the UASAG supports the following mission and vision statements:
Mission
Ensure U.S. Forest Service UAS planning and operations enhance the ability of the agency to perform its mission more efficiently and effectively.
Vision
The U.S. Forest Service is an organization that adopts new technologies such as UAS with a deliberate approach in a safe and cost-effective manner when they are the right asset to help us complete our mission.
The UASAG is chartered for three years (until September, 2015). After it has completed its work, U.S. Forest Service leadership will determine the future of a UAS program for the agency.
To contact a member of the UASAG, email to sm.fs.uasprogram@usda.gov
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Frequently Asked Questions
Contact
For additional information about use of UAS by the U.S. Forest Service, send an email to sm.fs.uasprogram@usda.gov