US Forest Service Announces Montana Tri-Forest Federal Sustained-Yield Unit

US Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz has signed the Montana Tri-Forest Federal Sustained-Yield Unit management plan, which is intended to support economic stability, strengthen central Montana’s wood-processing capacity, and advance forest health.

The Tri-Forest unit includes the Beaverhead-Deerlodge, Custer Gallatin, and Helena-Lewis and Clark national forests. Under the plan, timber harvested within the unit will be processed within its boundaries.

Commenting on the plan, Schultz said:

“Our focus is restoring and sustaining the ability of forests to provide the services that people want and need. This mission is more critical than ever, and the forest products industry is a partner among many to help us achieve our healthy forest goals. We estimate that over the first 10 years, the three forests will offer between 350–500 million board feet to local processing facilities in central Montana. That predictable supply not only helps to carry out forest restoration work but also supports local economies in an area where national forests make up a considerable part of the land base.”

Regional Forester Troy Heithecker added:

“Establishing the sustained-yield unit reflects the collaborative work of leaders in the three central Montana forests who are committed to supporting local communities while advancing priority work on the landscape. This plan will help provide stability for the forest products industry in central Montana while contributing to meaningful, on-the-ground progress that reduces wildfire risk, improves forest conditions for wildlife and expands outdoor opportunities for the outdoor recreation community.”