Forest monitoring, evaluation reports released
RUSSELLVILLE – The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests have released their Biennial Monitoring and Evaluation Report covering fiscal years 2017 to 2019.
Forest management activities on the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are ultimately determined by the 2005 Revised Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan). Forest managers use a biennial assessment and reporting schedule to help determine how well Forest Plan objectives are being met, and whether changes are warranted in Forest Plan direction or management activities.
Monitoring and Evaluation Reports use established assessment criteria that is specifically outlined in the Forest Plan.
“There are several objectives of this report in addition to assessing current conditions and trends. Data takes into consideration changed conditions, relevant assumptions and management effectiveness,” said Forest Planning and Public Services Staff Officer Amy Burt. “While this isn’t a decision document, we assess not only recommendations from previous reports, but also present recommended changes we would like to see implemented within the next biennial period. This is a great way for the public to learn about how the Forest Service is managing forest resources.”
The Forest Plan Monitoring Program oversees the establishment of each biennial report. The program requires a coordinated effort of many people, from interested publics, to valued federal, state and local partners, to data collectors who do the work on the ground. Throughout the year, Forest managers work with interested groups, regulatory agencies, permit and contract holders, and many others to discuss the Plan’s effectiveness.
For more information about monitoring or planning activities, or about becoming involved with future Forest activities, contact the Forest Environmental Coordinator Janine Book at janine.book@usda.gov.
The latest Monitoring and Evaluation Report can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/osfnf/landmanagement/planning/?cid=stelprdb5212211