US Forest Service Faces Severe Research Cutbacks Under Trump Administration
The US Forest Service, recognized as the world's largest forestry research organization, is evaluating the potential closure of 57 out of its 77 research sites. This move, driven by the Trump administration's proposal to eliminate funding for the agency's Research and Development branch in the 2026 and 2027 budgets, has sparked widespread concern among scientists. Although Congress maintained some funding at $309 million for 2026, the administration continues to push for significant reductions. Agency officials justify the reorganization by citing a $3 billion deferred maintenance backlog and low occupancy at certain facilities, asserting that scientific work will continue through staff relocation. However, researchers warn that closing these irreplaceable sites, some hosting century-long longitudinal studies, could devastate critical environmental science. Former and current employees describe the atmosphere as demoralizing, fearing the loss of unique data and expertise. Despite initial announcements of closures, pressure from Congress and the scientific community has led the agency to pause final decisions, promising evaluations over the coming year. The situation highlights a tense conflict between fiscal austerity measures and the preservation of long-term ecological research infrastructure.
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US Forest Service Faces Severe Research Cutbacks Under Trump Administration
The US Forest Service, recognized as the world's largest forestry research organization, is evaluating the potential closure of 57 out of its 77 research sites. This move, driven by the Trump administration's proposal to eliminate funding for the agency's Research and Development branch in the 2026 and 2027 budgets, has sparked widespread concern among scientists. Although Congress maintained some funding at $309 million for 2026, the administration continues to push for significant reductions. Agency officials justify the reorganization by citing a $3 billion deferred maintenance backlog and low occupancy at certain facilities, asserting that scientific work will continue through staff relocation. However, researchers warn that closing these irreplaceable sites, some hosting century-long longitudinal studies, could devastate critical environmental science. Former and current employees describe the atmosphere as demoralizing, fearing the loss of unique data and expertise. Despite initial announcements of closures, pressure from Congress and the scientific community has led the agency to pause final decisions, promising evaluations over the coming year. The situation highlights a tense conflict between fiscal austerity measures and the preservation of long-term ecological research infrastructure.
Nature