USFS

The United States Forest Service (USFS) is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that manages public lands in national forests and national grasslands. Its stated mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations, balancing resource use with conservation and recreation.

The USFS traces its origins to 1905, when the Division of Forestry within the Department of Agriculture was reorganized and renamed the United States Forest Service. Gifford Pinchot served as its first chief. Over time the agency expanded beyond timber production to include forest health, watershed protection, wildlife habitat, fire management, and research, reflecting evolving conservation and land-management priorities.

Scope and activities: The agency administers the National Forest System and 20 national grasslands, totaling about 193 million acres across 44 states. It conducts forest health, insect and disease management, and sustainable timber harvests; protects water resources and habitat; and facilitates outdoor recreation, tourism, and education. Fire management is a major function, encompassing suppression, prevention, and prescribed burning, often in coordination with state and local partners and other federal agencies. The USFS also supports forestry research and development and collaborates with state, local, and private landowners to promote sustainable land-use practices.

Organization: The Forest Service is led by the Chief of the Forest Service, who reports to the USDA Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment. It is organized into nine regions and mission areas including National Forest System, Research and Development, State and Private Forestry, and International Programs.