National Forest Recovery

Fallen trees, tangled debris, moss-covered logs — forest restoration crews deal with a lot more than just planting. Clearing downed timber opens up the forest floor, improves access for planting crews, and reduces fuel load that could feed future wildfires. It's unglamorous work,

Planting is only part of what keeps a national forest healthy. Vegetation management — clearing invasive understory, cutting back overgrowth along trails and planting sites — is ongoing work that happens season after season. Left unchecked, dense shrub cover can outcompete young

Our national forests invite everyone in, pets included. While we encourage people to experience these beautiful places, we also emphasize the need to tread lightly.
Protecting the land today ensures that the forest and its wildlife can thrive long into the future.

Part of our mission is to maintain the balance between human needs and nature. Local communities depend on forests, and we work to ensure they remain healthy, natural, and respectful of all the living beings that call them home.

Spring has arrived—a perfect time to explore and reconnect with our national forests.

As trails reopen and wildlife becomes more active, it's also a critical moment to tread responsibly.

Staying on marked paths, respecting fire regulations, and minimizing impact helps ensure

Camping in a forest isn’t just about the towering trees or sweeping landscapes—it’s also about the small, beautiful discoveries along the way. A single wildflower blooming on the forest floor, delicate yet resilient, is a reminder of the intricate ecosystems thriving around us.

Camping in national forests offers a chance to connect with nature, but responsible practices are essential to protect these landscapes.

Always follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out all trash, minimize campfire impact, and use designated fire rings where allowed.

Respect

We’re proud to play a role in conserving the natural landscapes of the US, protecting the vital connection between nature and our health.

As you explore these beautiful places, remember to embrace ecotourism consciously—preserving wildlife and habitats for future generations.

Ecotourism offers a way to enjoy nature without harming it. By choosing sustainable travel, we help protect ecosystems, support local communities, and promote conservation efforts.

At Mt. Hood National Park, we've created strategic corridors that allow hikers to explore while minimizing disruption to the soil and vegetation. It’s all about balancing conservation with ecotourism to keep our parks thriving.

Maintaining the roads in our National Forests is also part of the job, this way we keep ecoturism alive while signaling the right way to go and keep our forests safe.

Education plays a crucial role in ecotourism. Visitor centers and guided tours provide valuable information about the park's biodiversity, the importance of its conservation, and how each individual can contribute to protecting these precious natural resources.

Community involvement and environmental education are fundamental to the success of conservation programs. By engaging and educating the local population and visitors about the importance of forests, greater respect and commitment to their protection are fostered.

Trees, rivers, animals, and even us – we all depend on each other. Keeping nature in balance is like making sure that puzzle stays together. Simple actions, like planting trees, recycling, and using less water, are ways we can help. By learning about and caring for our environment,

When visiting natural habitats, it's crucial for visitors to exercise discipline in their actions. This includes staying on designated trails, disposing of waste responsibly, and refraining from disturbing wildlife. By following these guidelines, visitors contribute to the preservation