Forest Service plans to carry out major reorganization with or without approval from Congress

Key Points:

• The Forest Service plans to relocate its headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah, close most of its research facilities, and eliminate nine regional offices as part of a major reorganization, proceeding with or without Congressional approval.
• About 500 employees, or 1.5% of the agency’s workforce, are expected to relocate under the plan, though the union estimates thousands could be affected; many employees may quit rather than move due to personal and family disruptions.
• The agency’s FY 2027 budget proposes cutting approximately 800 research scientist positions, with the expectation that states or private sector will absorb these roles, despite concerns about the impact on public land research.
• Lawmakers have expressed frustration over a lack of transparency and detail about the reorganization, with some citing past relocation efforts that led to significant staff losses; the Forest Service acknowledges the challenges but plans to support affected employees.
• The budget also renews efforts to merge wildland firefighting functions of the Forest Service and Interior Department, pending a feasibility study, though Congress remains cautious and has delayed approval until more information is available.