AFS and Partners Call for Forest Service R&D Support

AFS joined with a number of organizations and professional societies in calling for support of the Forest Service’s Research and Development (R&D) program to improve the future health and sustainability of the nation’s forests and grasslands for the benefits to forests, wildlife, and fish.  In a letter to Chairman Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Ranking Member Tom Udall (D-N.M.) of the Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, the organizations and professional societies urged Congress to increase funding for all Forest Service R&D to a minimum of $307 million in FY 2019.     

Forest Service R&D programs inform policy and land-management decisions that improve health and use of the nation’s forests and rangelands, including aquatic systems. Using stream temperature and fish data, Forest Service R&D scientists are developing important tools to inform and enhance management and conservation of aquatic resources. Projects like Climate Shield produce spatially-precise and user-friendly digital maps to guide conservation efforts in key watersheds. This tool forecasts specific locations that are most likely to continue supporting native cutthroat trout and ESA-listed bull trout based on future temperature scenarios.

AFS is proud to support the important work of fisheries scientists in the Forest Service’s Research and Development program.

Read the letter here