Pinchot

Pinchot is a surname of American origin, most closely associated with a prominent conservationist family active in the early 20th century. The best known bearer is Gifford Pinchot (1865–1946), a forester and public official who became the first chief of the United States Forest Service (1905–1910) and later served as governor of Pennsylvania (1923–1927). Pinchot promoted scientific forestry and the concept of managing forest resources for multiple uses, balancing timber production with watershed protection, recreation, and wildlife habitat. His leadership helped shape the professionalization of forestry in the United States and influenced national policy during the Progressive Era.

The Pinchot surname is associated with other members of the family who engaged in law, politics, and public service, and with a number of institutions, parks, and programs named in recognition of their work in conservation and land management. The name remains a touchstone in discussions of American forestry policy and environmental governance.