The new 2024 Master Agreement between the National Federation of Federal Employees and the Forest Service has been completed. It provides the framework for constructive and cooperative relationships among the Forest Service, the union and bargaining unit employees. This agreement is the most recent in a long line of negotiated agreements that began in 1979. Each successive negotiation has allowed it to evolve to address changing needs of both the organization and its employees.  

Since January 2023, representatives of the union and management collaborated to find common ground in their respective interests, working through important issues like safety, firefighting, housing and the work environment. 

When employees and managers open our latest agreement, they will find 19 revised articles and a renewed focus on early engagement and collaboration. This agreement provides employees an opportunity to participate in the development and implementation of personnel policies and practices affecting conditions of their employment. We have also added a new article to help employees achieve better work-life balance.

Over the next few months, all bargaining unit employees and their supervisors will receive training co-led by the union and management. The goal will be for employees and supervisors to have a common understanding of the agreement and a chance to ask questions.  

The union and management negotiating teams hope this agreement will help employees safely and efficiently accomplish the Forest Service mission while enhancing employee well-being and advancing the agency’s goal of becoming an employer of choice.