Planning
Generally it is planning at a broad scale, either at the Regional, Forest, or Landscape (Watershed) level. Assessments identify existing condition, risks, opportunities, and desired future condition. The end product does not require a NEPA decision, but is information that feeds into Project analysis.
Projects
Projects are proposed actions that are analyzed through the NEPA process (EIS, EA, or CE) that involve analyzing different alternatives to the proposed action, requires public notice and comment, and result in a NEPA decision (ROD, DN, or DM) which is subject to an administrative appeals process, and ultimately is implemented on the ground.
Resource Management
The Forest Service is charged with managing natural resources in a way that best serves the multiple needs of a growing nation. The agency was established to ensure a renewable supply of timber and a steady source of clean water and minerals.
Geospatial Data
Selected GIS datasets for the Pacific Southwest Region are available for download from this area. The scale at which the Pacific Southwest's GIS data was developed depends upon the subject and type of data.