Forest Service announces public meeting on Northwest Forest Plan updates

WENATCHEE — The U.S. Forest Service will hold a public meeting this month to discuss proposed changes to the Northwest Forest Plan, which has guided federal forest management since 1994.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest headquarters will host the January 16 meeting to present draft amendments to the plan, which governs management of 24 million acres of federal forests across Washington, Oregon and Northern California.

The meeting, scheduled for 5:30-7:00 p.m., will include presentations from Forest Service staff on proposed changes outlined in a Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The amendments address wildfire risk reduction, climate change adaptation, sustainable timber harvest, and tribal involvement in forest management decisions.

The public comment period runs through March 17. During the meeting, attendees can review maps, collect informational materials, and learn about the process for submitting comments on the proposed changes.

The Northwest Forest Plan was implemented in 1994 to establish guidelines for forest conservation and timber harvesting on federal lands.

The Draft Environmental Impact Statement outlines proposed updates focusing on wildfire management, climate impacts, and local economic considerations. 

Forest Service staff will be available at the meeting to discuss the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The meeting will begin with a presentation at 5:45 p.m., followed by an open house format.

Additional public meetings are scheduled across Washington, Oregon and Northern California. Those unable to attend can submit comments through the Forest Service website or by email at SM.FS.NWFPquestion@usda.gov.

The meeting will be held at the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest headquarters, located at 215 Melody Lane in Wenatchee.