U.S. Forest Service to shut 23 research stations in cost-cutting overhaul
The U.S. Forest Service will close 23 research facilities across more than a dozen states as part of a Trump-era reorganization aimed at reducing expenses.
As part of a broader reorganization initiated under President Donald Trump, the U.S. Forest Service will discontinue operations at 23 research stations spread across more than a dozen states, with 95 employees slated for reassignment. Forest Service Associate Chief Chris French emphasized that ongoing scientific activities and experimental forests will continue elsewhere. After lobbying from local officials and members of Congress, 41 other facilities that faced possible closure will remain open.
The agency also intends to move its headquarters from Washington to Salt Lake City and close regional offices in Atlanta, Milwaukee and Portland, a shift projected to cut about $16 million in costs. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the relocation will bring leadership closer to the lands they manage. Conservation groups have warned the changes could limit forest access and affect wildlife, air and water quality.
Why it matters
The closures reshape federal research capacity and could affect forest management, conservation and local economies.
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