U.S. Forest Service Overhaul Raises Concerns Over Potential Dismantling
Concerns have been raised regarding the U.S. Forest Service's recent overhaul, which some critics argue resembles dismantling rather than improving efficiency. According to a letter to the editor in the Los Angeles Times, the reorganization has led to a significant reduction in the workforce, with California losing 14% of its public-lands workforce and a 9% reduction in the U.S. Forest Service staff since 2025. The letter highlights that Congress has underfunded the agency since the 1990s, particularly for non-fire suppression activities. Proposed budget cuts and policy changes, such as efforts to weaken the Roadless Rule, are exacerbating the situation. The closure of California's regional USFS office and research facilities, along with leadership moving from Washington, is seen as a sign of further weakening of the agency. 
