BOISE, Idaho — Governor Brad Little has announced Idaho’s support for a federal initiative to expand forest management and increase timber production, following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.
The order targets all seven of Idaho’s national forests, which span roughly 20.4 million acres—about 40% of the state’s land. The move aims to reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health, and boost rural economies through expanded logging activity.
“The Trump administration is enacting common-sense forest management policy changes that reflect Idaho values,” said Governor Little in a press release. “Idaho stands ready to help transform how our federal lands and fires are managed, leading to invigorated rural communities.”
Idaho is a major timber-producing state, with 91 active sawmills manufacturing products such as dimensional lumber, plywood, and engineered wood panels.
The Forest Service, which oversees all of Idaho’s national forests, was recently directed to develop new five-year plans to raise timber yields by more than 25%. Acting Associate Chief Chris French instructed regional foresters to prepare timber projects for future implementation within a 24-month timeframe.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized that “healthy forests require work” and described the policy as a step toward minimizing wildfire, insect, and disease risks while strengthening the timber industry.
The Forest Service must now draft a national strategy within 30 days, outlining specific goals and actions for increasing active forest management.
