Reviewing Partnerships to Enhance Management of the National Forest System

The House Committee on Agriculture held a subcommittee hearing on June 26, 2026, titled "Reviewing Partnerships to Enhance Management of the National Forest System." The hearing focused on the critical role of partnerships between the Forest Service and various stakeholders—including counties, law enforcement, forest product industries, and conservation groups—in managing national forests, particularly in addressing wildfire risks and forest health. Witnesses highlighted the importance of stable funding mechanisms such as the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which supports local infrastructure and emergency services, and emphasized the need for reauthorization to avoid budget uncertainties that hinder planning and operations. Discussions also covered challenges posed by staffing shortages within the Forest Service, regulatory barriers to active forest management, and the impact of administrative reorganizations on wildfire response and fuels reduction efforts. Several witnesses advocated for legislative and policy reforms to streamline forest management, enhance collaboration, and support forest products infrastructure to improve forest resilience and community safety. The committee expressed bipartisan support for advancing these priorities, including the passage of the 2026 Farm Bill forestry provisions and legislation like HR 6802 addressing law enforcement jurisdiction issues.