Rollins says USDA is 'full-bore ahead' on Forest Service reorganization
The Trump administration wants to move Forest Service headquarters from Washington to Salt Lake City, shutter 23 research stations, and close many regional offices and replace them with state offices.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins asserted on Thursday that President Trump's administration remains resolute in its plan to reorganize the Forest Service and related agencies, despite a recent court injunction blocking the changes. Rollins, speaking on a conference call with reporters, emphasized the administration's commitment, stating, "We are full-bore ahead in the reorganization" and that they "believe in it more today than we ever have."
The reorganization aims to relocate the Forest Service headquarters from Washington to Salt Lake City, close 23 research stations, and replace numerous regional offices with state offices. This initiative is part of a broader realignment at the Agriculture Department, which also seeks to alter programs related to food and nutrition, rural development, and other services.
Although the plan is currently on hold pending legal challenges, it is expected to be appealed. Federal employee unions, environmental organizations, and local officials are vehemently opposing the reorganization, arguing that it could lead to workforce reductions and a shift in priorities towards the interests of the timber, oil, and gas industries.
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