A Message from the Chief, Leadership Changes

Correcting Amendment to Planning Rule Published
This technical amendment was made at the request of the Federal Register’s director.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day –Volunteers Wanted

Presidential Inauguration – January 20

Special Forest Products Focus of Final Rule
These regulations will allow the Forest Service to better manage its special forest products program.

University Analyzes Forest Service Litigation Outcomes
Over 900 cases were studied, with "wins" and "losses" quantified.

LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVES: Global Markets for Wood

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Today’s Green Tips

Western Forestry Leadership Coalition Welcomes New Staff
Forest Service provides expertise to fill the positions.

USDA News Now Online

An “Overview” of the Agency Posted Online (8.79 MB pdf)
The US Forest Service - An Overview document has been posted to the Forest
Service’s public Web site. Look under "Spotlight."

An Interview with Dawn M. Charging
She's the Intergovernmental Affairs Director for Native American Programs.

Evaluating Lightning Protection on Lookouts and Communication Facilities
Unexpected lightning can raise the hair on the back of your neck, especially when you’re in a lookout.

Finding New Value in Our Forests
Dense stands of small-diameter trees pose both threat and opportunity for dozens of communities neighboring National Forests.

NFF Announces Biomass Learning Session
A 90-minute peer learning session via teleconference.

USDA National Scholars Program Applications Open for 2009 Academic School Year
Forestry, forest products and other land use disciplines are included.

Selected LEI Reports

REGION 2 - Rocky Mountain Region

The Gunbarrel Fire: A Wildland Fire Use Success Story
The forest’s outstanding relationships with local communities and partners were integral to success.

REGION 3 - Southwestern Region

Southwestern Region to Provide 2009 Capitol Christmas Tree
The tree will come from the White Mountains of eastern Arizona.

REGION 5 - Pacific Southwest Region

Lebanese Interagency Fire Tour Will Stop in Southern California

REGION 6 - Pacific Northwest Region

Winter Storms Create Hazardous Conditions On Washington’s National Forests
Some forest roads that were not closed because of snowpack now may be impassable because of downed trees and road and bridge washouts.

Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry

News Notes for December 2008

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Pearson Receives Deputy Chief’s Award
Dean Pearson is recognized for his significant contributions to the fields of biological control, invasive species ecology, and wildlife biology.