Northwest Forest Plan
The Northwest Forest Plan covers 24.5 million acres of federally managed lands in California, Oregon, and Washington. It was established in 1994 to address threats to threatened and endangered species while also contributing to social and economic sustainability in the region. Over 30 years later, the Northwest Forest Plan needs to be updated to accommodate changed ecological and social conditions.
Key Priorities:
- Enhance fire resistance and resilience to protect forests and communities.
- Promote economic opportunities for sustainable timber and workforce growth.
- Strengthen the foundation of forest stewardship with modern strategies.
Northwest Forest Plan Amendment
A proposed amendment is now underway to update it with modern science and community input.
Focus areas: Wildfire resilience, sustainable timber and economic opportunity, ecosystem health and stewardship partnerships
1994 Northwest Forest Plan & Background
In 1994, the comprehensive Northwest Forest Plan used an innovative landscape approach based on ecosystem and watershed management.
1994 NWFP Survey & Manage Emergency Guidance
The Forest Service has issued guidance clarifying how existing provisions of the Northwest Forest Plan apply to emergency projects authorized under the April 2025 Emergency Situation Determination (ESD).