AIBS joined the Ecological Society of America, the Entomological Society of America, and The Wildlife Society, along with 24 other scientific and professional organizations, in sending a letter to Congress expressing strong concerns about the proposed reorganization of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
“Congress has explicitly restricted the use of FY 2026 appropriated funds to conduct agency reorganizations, including provisions stating that funds may not be used to ‘eliminate programs or projects, relocate an office or employees, or reorganize offices, programs, or activities’ without prior approval from the Committee on Appropriations,” the letter reads. “The proposed changes to USFS reflect a large-scale restructuring that potentially violates appropriations law and warrants close congressional oversight to ensure no legal limits are crossed.”
The letter outlines specific requests, including the need for robust congressional oversight and ensuring that appropriated funds for USFS Research and Development are used as intended.
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