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Biden administration halts old-growth forest protection plan after opposition

The Biden administration has withdrawn a proposal to safeguard old-growth forests following industry and Republican opposition, citing lessons learned from public feedback.

Matthew Brown reports for The Associated Press.


In short:

  • The Forest Service shelved the plan, intended to limit logging of old-growth forests, after criticism that it overlooked local forest ecosystem differences.
  • Timber industry groups argued existing protections are sufficient and further restrictions would harm logging businesses reliant on federal lands.
  • Conservation groups maintain that protecting old-growth forests is essential due to their carbon storage capacity and vulnerability to climate-related threats like wildfires.

Key quote:

“There is strong support for, and an expectation of us, to continue to conserve these forests based on the best available scientific information.”

— U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore

Why this matters:

Old-growth forests store significant carbon, making them vital in climate change mitigation. However, threats from wildfires, pests and logging challenge their survival. Balancing conservation with economic interests remains a contentious policy issue.

Read more: Biden administration falls short on forest protection despite pledges

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