The U.S. Forest Service announced it will close 23 research stations nationwide as part of a reorganization under President Donald Trump. The move aims to reduce facilities costs and concentrate resources, with employees transitioning to nearby locations.
The reorganization impacts federal research capabilities and resource allocation within the U.S. Forest Service, potentially affecting environmental conservation efforts and scientific research across the country.
The U.S. Forest Service is closing 23 research stations nationwide as part of a reorganization initiated under President Donald Trump. The agency stated that these facilities have minimal to no staffing and that employees will transition to locations with local commute options. This consolidation is expected to reduce facilities costs and allow more funding to be directed toward mission delivery and research.
According to Tom Schultz, Chief of the Forest Service, the closures will not result in staff cuts. The move is anticipated to yield approximately $8.8 million in annual lease savings and over $8 million in deferred maintenance savings. This announcement follows the Forest Service's earlier decision to relocate its headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Salt Lake City, a move that will transfer 260 jobs. Conservation groups have expressed concerns that these changes could negatively impact forest access, wildlife habitats, and environmental quality.
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