H_AGR_2018A 02/07/2018 11:08:57 AM Committee Summary

Mr. Lester identified lumber mills in Colorado and discussed efforts to promote a commercial timber industry in Colorado, including the "Good Neighbor" authority that enables the Colorado State Forest Service to manage forests on federal lands.  He also responded to questions from the committee about the beneficiaries of Forest Health Grants.

Jacque Buchanan, Deputy Regional Forester, United State Forest Service (USFS), identified national forests and national grasslands in the the Rocky Mountain Region of the USFS.  Ms. Buchanan also distributed a written copy her testimony [Attachment C].  She discussed efforts to promote healthy forests and range lands and recreational opportunities on USFS lands.  She also discussed collaboration between the USFS and other state and federal land management agencies and federal initiatives to promote timber harvesting on insect impacted lands.  She explained that over the past several years, the federal government has spent $161 million to improve forest health on USFS lands in Colorado.  

Ms. Buchanan and Mr. Lester responded to questions from the committee about historic changes in forest management policies in Colorado including policies pertaining to fire suppression, grazing, and timber harvesting.

Mr. Lester and Ms. Buchanan responded to questions about the effect of timber management on water supplies and the health of watersheds.

Dan Casey, President, Colorado Timber Industry Association (CTIA), explained that he operates a timber mill in Woodland Colorado and discussed the membership of CTIA.  He discussed the health of Colorado's forest and the need to harvest insect damaged forests.  He also identified federal funding challenges that limit the ability of the USFS to manage its forests.

Molly Pits, Executive Director, Colorado Timber Industry Association, responded to questions from the committee about timber supplies available to mills in Colorado.