State forestry group goes mum amid Trump turmoil

By Marc Heller | 03/13/2025 01:44 PM EDT

The National Association of State Foresters, an influential group on wildfire and other forest policies, isn’t talking publicly about rollbacks.

The crowns of mature Atlantic White Cedar trees tower over the viewer.

This Sept. 22, 2021, photo shows mature Atlantic white cedar trees in Brendan Byrne State Forest in Woodland Township, New Jersey. The National Association of State Foresters represents state forestry agencies. Wayne Parry/AP

When Randy Moore took over as chief of the Forest Service in July 2021, one of the first organizations to cheer him on was the National Association of State Foresters, the voice of state forestry agencies since its founding in 1920.

“We are thrilled for Randy Moore,” the NASF said in a news release the day after Moore, a career Forest Service employee, started on the job. The group relayed its “highest thanks” to the outgoing chief, Vicki Christiansen, as well.

Now, 10 days after Moore retired and was replaced as forest chief by Tom Schultz, the group hasn’t had much to say about either.

The forestry association’s retreat isn’t confined to comments about the Forest Service’s leadership.

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