For decades, our regional and research station structure has served the agency well. It helped us form strong relationships and carry out a mission that has only grown in importance. At the same time, we have operated under long‑standing budget constraints, increasing demands on our workforce, and a growing need to shift resources and authority closer to where our work happens: on the ground, alongside states, tribes, partners, and neighboring communities. The challenges we face today call for a model that is more responsive, accountable, and locally connected than before. These changes are designed to simplify the chain of command, strengthen local partnerships, and give field leaders greater ability to respond to conditions on the ground.

That said, I recognize that today’s announcement carries significant personal and professional implications. Decisions that affect where you and your families live and work are deeply consequential, and we are committed to communicating openly and supporting you throughout this process.

The transition will occur in phases to ensure continuity of operations and to give employees time and clarity as decisions are made. Throughout this period, our Interim Operations structure will remain in place and guide us until the new model is fully operational. We will continue our operations while supporting one another, monitoring our capacity, and adjusting as needed.

Our incident response remains our priority. Importantly, today’s announcement does not make any changes to our Fire and Aviation Management program or its field-based operational firefighters and their positions. Our Geographic Area Coordination Centers will remain in place as the backbone of our national incident response. Our fire readiness and response will continue without interruption.

For National Capitol Region employees whose positions are part of this initial phase, no immediate action is required. Over the coming days and weeks, you will receive additional information outlining expected timelines for relocation, options available to employees whose positions are moving, resources and support to assist with decision-making, and opportunities to ask questions and receive direct guidance. The Employee Assistance Program will also provide onsite support to help employees and families navigate this period of change.

Additional phases of the reorganization, including the formal elimination of regional and station structures and the full transition to a state-based model, will be implemented over the coming year. As those milestones approach, we will provide clear guidance to employees and partners.

I know this transition raises questions about roles, locations, reporting structures, and timelines. Change of this magnitude affects people, families, and communities—not just organizational charts. We are committed to approaching this work with transparency, empathy, respect, and an understanding of the real impacts on your lives. 

To guide this effort, we have assembled a core internal executive team, supported by a continuously rotating group of field and program leaders and subject matter experts. This team will prioritize employee engagement, seeking input, listening to concerns, and incorporating feedback as we implement this transition. We will provide regular updates and maintain an internal website with the latest information, resources, timelines, and answers to common questions.

This is a significant moment for the Forest Service. It reflects both the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead to strengthen our mission for the long term. I want to be clear: There is a position for each of you in the new structure, and your skills and experience are essential to the work ahead. At the same time, we know that not all positions will look the same or be located in the same places they are today. That reality brings uncertainty, and I recognize the impact it may have. We will navigate this transition together, with transparency and support, and we will continue to deliver for the people and places we serve.

Forest Service employees can find full, current information here.