April 20, 2023 | USDA Press |
In preparation for Earth Day, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Interior (DOI) announced initiatives aimed at promoting forest conservation, enhancing forest resilience to climate change, and informing policymaking for healthy forests on federally managed lands. These actions, directed by President Biden's Executive Order on Strengthening the Nation's Forests, Communities, and Local Economies, include inventorying mature and old-growth forests, setting reforestation targets, and analyzing reforestation opportunities.
The joint reports released by USDA and DOI provide critical information on mature and old-growth forests, their distribution, and the threats they face from climate change. The agencies will continue to engage with the public and refine their results based on feedback and scientific data. Additionally, the reports include recommendations for increasing reforestation capacity, strengthening partnerships, and developing a reforestation workforce.
The Forest Service has issued an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for National Forest and Grassland Climate Resilience, seeking public input on adapting policies to protect and manage national forests and grasslands in the face of climate change. They are also launching the Forest Service Climate Risk Viewer, a tool that assesses climate risks and vulnerabilities and supports localized analysis for conservation and adaptation efforts.
These efforts align with President Biden's vision for a resilient forest ecosystem and demonstrate progress in implementing his Executive Order. The USDA and DOI remain committed to collaboration and innovation to address the challenges of climate change and ensure the health and sustainability of forests.