NASF submitted comments responding to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) to amend Land Management Plans for old-growth forests across the National Forest System (NFS).
Old-growth forests contribute to nature-based climate solutions, increase biodiversity, mitigate wildfire risks, enhance climate resilience, enable subsistence and cultural uses, provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and promote sustainable local economic development. NASF agrees that those values are important and work closely at national and local levels to ensure forests of all ages support those goals.
In the comments, NASF expresses support for proactive forest management, including the use of commercial timber harvesting, to maintain forest health and achieve desired old-growth conditions. NASF emphasizes the importance of flexible management tools and Forest Service coordination with state forestry agencies to address the unique conditions of different forest landscapes.