8legs: Western united states, usa

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Even Trump's allies worried about new admin shake-up causing staff walkouts

Forest Service announces a large reorganization, moving headquarters to Salt Lake City and shifting authority toward state-level offices.
Officials say the move aims to bring decision-making closer to forests but trail concerns about staffing shortages and implementation details.
State foresters embrace closer collaboration but fear attrition as hundreds may relocate or shift duties amid staffing cuts.
Critics warn the headquarters move could undermine federal land management, with some calling it a step toward weakening federal oversight.
Agency argues the restructure will reduce bureaucracy and bring forest decisions to the local level.
Officials emphasize partnerships with states, tribes, and nonprofits as a key tool for managing federal lands.
Some observers fear the changes will trigger more staff attrition during a critical wildfire season.
The forest service’s West-centric reorganization follows Trump-era workforce reductions and budget pressures.
Some argue the move could centralize control away from federal lands in states with hostile attitudes toward ownership.
Supporters say placing leaders closer to forests will improve coordination on timber, wildfire, and habitat issues.
The agency says the plan responds to a need for state-led management to meet multiple-use mandates on federal lands.

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