Forest Service Chief Upholds Management Plan for Sierra Nevada Forests with Minor Changes

The Chief of the USDA Forest Service in Washington, D.C., has issued his decision on appeals of the Pacific Southwest Region's January 2004 Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment. View the Chief's news release on his decision.

March 21 Update: USDA Under Secretary Mark Rey today signed his discretionary review decision regarding Forest Service Chief Dale Bosworth's November 18, 2004, decision on appeals of Regional Forester Jack Blackwell's January 2004 Sierra Nevada decision. In his decision memorandum, Rey told the Chief that: "Based upon a review of the appeal record and your decision, I affirm your appeal decision regarding the 2004 Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment." This decision is the final administrative determination of USDA.

On January 21, 2004, Regional Forester Jack Blackwell signed a new Record of Decision (ROD) for the Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment. The final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) and ROD amended the Sierra Nevada Forest Plan (Framework) to improve protection of old forests, wildlife habitats, watersheds and communities in the Sierra Nevada mountains and Modoc Plateau.

At the same time, the Forest Service initiated the Forests with a Future campaign aimed at protecting Sierra Nevada old-growth, wildlife and communities from catastrophic wildfires. This campaign also helps build public understanding of the need for action and encourages people to help. For more information on this campaign and to view the SEIS and ROD, please go to the Forests with a Future website.

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