News
Forest Service Seeks Public Input on Wayne National Forest Management Plan Revision
By: WOUB News Team
Posted on:
NELSONVILLE, Ohio – The public has an opportunity to weigh in on how the Wayne National Forest is managed.
The National Forest Service seeks public review of a draft assessment that outlines ecological, social and economic changes on the forest and surrounding area. The assessment is the first step in revising the plan that guides management of the forest.
Forest plan revision is a three phase process: assessment, plan development and implementation and monitoring. The Wayne National Forest is currently in the assessment phase where the goal is to evaluate relevant current conditions and trends in the Wayne National Forest and southeastern Ohio.
“I encourage everyone to review the draft assessment and to stay engaged throughout revision of the forest plan,” Forest Supervisor Carrie Gilbert said. “Your involvement in the process will help guide future management of your national forest.”
Public input over a 45-day public review will focus on what is important to local communities and the people who use the forest. The draft was released on January 24.
The draft assessment documents have been released on the Wayne National Forest’s Plan Revision Draft Assessment webpage, which also includes an introductory video to forest plan revision, a link to a story map that provides an overview of the Wayne National Forest plan revision process and a “How to Participate” section with a link to the online comment system (CARA).
In addition to providing online access to draft assessment documents, a printed copy of the draft assessment and supplemental reports will be available at each of the three national forest offices in Nelsonville, Marietta, and Pedro.
Input can also be submitted by letter to Forest Plan Revision Assessment Feedback, Wayne National Forest, 13700 Highway 33, Nelsonville, OH 45764, or by phone at 740-753-0555.
The Forest Service says input is most useful when it is within the scope of the assessment phase.
Members of the public with questions are encouraged to contact the forest plan revision team at 740-753-0555 or wayneplanrevision@usda.gov.