The Trump administration’s goal of expanding timber production is about to see one of its biggest tests yet in Alaska.
The Forest Service has launched a comprehensive revision of the land management plan for the 16.7-million-acre Tongass National Forest, where a long-envisioned transition away from old-growth logging — and perhaps from a timber-dependent economy altogether — has proven challenging.
In updating its plans last week, the Forest Service highlighted its intention to adhere to President Donald Trump’s executive orders on immediately expanding timber production and lifting roadless-area restrictions on timber and related development.
“We’re taking another step forward in the process to modernize the Tongass National Forest plan by prioritizing long-term regional prosperity, adapting to 25 years of economic and ecological changes, and improving clarity of direction within the plan,” said Tongass National Forest Supervisor Monique Nelson in a news release.
