For the Purpose of Receiving Testimony from Chief Tom Schultz, U.S. Forest Service

The House Committee on Agriculture's Subcommittee on Forestry and Horticulture held a hearing on July 23, 2026, to receive testimony from Chief Tom Schultz of the U.S. Forest Service. The hearing focused extensively on the Forest Service's ongoing reorganization plan, which proposes shifting from a regional to a state-based office model, consolidating research leadership, and reducing the agency's facility footprint to address budget constraints and improve operational efficiency. Chief Schultz highlighted efforts to increase wildfire preparedness, hazardous fuels reduction, and timber harvest levels to support forest health and rural economies. Members expressed concerns about the reorganization's impact on staffing, employee relocations, and potential loss of institutional knowledge, with some questioning the legality of proceeding without congressional approval. The hearing also addressed challenges such as declining timber markets, infrastructure maintenance, employee housing shortages, and the potential closure of research facilities, including the Institute of Pacific Island Forestry. Discussions included the importance of maintaining research and forest management programs, expanding markets for forest products, and enhancing post-fire recovery efforts. The committee emphasized the need for transparency, adequate funding, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the Forest Service can effectively fulfill its mission amid increasing wildfire risks and environmental challenges.