WASHINGTON, D.C.–The National Association of State Foresters welcomes the well-qualified leadership materializing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). To maximize public benefits from forests and reduce catastrophic wildfire threats, State Foresters need experienced federal agency leaders who understand the complexities of the issues, the value of strong state-federal partnerships, and the urgency of needed solutions.
Newly confirmed USDA Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has echoed support for top State Forestry priorities including the fortification of forest markets, disaster aid, active forest management and wildfire mitigation.
“We are encouraged by today’s confirmation of Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, as well as the incoming USDA leadership overseeing the Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service. This strong team includes former industry, congressional, and state forestry agency leaders who can make immediate positive impacts for our nation’s forests,” said Jay Farrell, Executive Director of the National Association of State Foresters.
Rollins’ evolving leadership team at USDA also includes newly appointed Deputy Undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment (NRE), Kristin Sleeper, who brings with her a strong background in forestry and a wealth of experience in natural resource and environmental policy.
NRE’s new Chief of Staff, Tom Schultz, has served as Director of the Idaho Department of Lands and Vice President of Resources and Government Affairs at Idaho Forest Group, and in various leadership roles with Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
Anticipated confirmations of Michael Boren – former volunteer firefighter and Board Member of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation – as Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment and Richard Fordyce – a Missouri farmer and former Administrator of the Farm Service Agency – as Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conversation round out the new leadership roster at USDA.
These appointments establish USDA leadership with the experience and commitment needed to accelerate urgent forest management and wildland fire work across all lands, public and private. State Foresters look forward to collaborating with Secretary Rollins and her leadership team to leverage state partnerships that bolster the health and productivity of our nation’s forests and the communities they serve.