EDGEFIELD, S.C. —The National Wild Turkey Federation applauds the bipartisan introduction of the Senate companion to the Fix Our Forests Act, landmark legislation that builds upon the version already passed in the House. This legislation aims to accelerate forest restoration and wildfire mitigation across America’s public lands, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to healthy, resilient forests and safer communities.
The Senate bill adds several key provisions to the House bill:
- Extensive Definitions Section: The Senate bill nearly doubles the number of defined terms, offering clarity and consistency to guide implementation across federal agencies.
- Greater Emphasis on Science and Interagency Coordination: The legislation highlights the expanded role of the Wildfire Intelligence Center and the Fireshed Registry, driving science-based decision making and enhancing collaboration between federal, state and local partners.
- Use of AI and Forecasting Tools: The Senate version explicitly promotes the use of artificial intelligence and advanced forecasting tools to better anticipate and manage wildfire threats.
Since 2000, wildfires have ravaged more than 164 million acres across the United States, with 8.9 million acres lost in 2024 alone — one of the most destructive wildfire years in recent history. Today, over 117 million acres of federal forests remain vulnerable due to overgrowth and a lack of active management. These conditions threaten more than 44 million homes and countless communities living in the wildland-urban interface.
The Fix Our Forests Act is a powerful step toward reversing this trend. By streamlining restoration projects, boosting the use of cutting-edge technology, and fostering stronger coordination across agencies, the bill will help restore forests to a healthier state that supports water resources, wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation and local economies. Litigation reform also will help expedite work by requiring strengthened criteria that must be met before frivolous, stall-tactic lawsuits can be heard by courts.
“The NWTF, the USDA Forest Service and other key stakeholders are working diligently to address the growing risks caused by wildfires, drought, insects and disease,” said Matt Lindler, NWTF director of government affairs. “But there’s much more to do, and it can’t wait any longer. The Fix Our Forests Act encourages immediate action before more destruction occurs.”
The NWTF remains committed to advancing proactive, science-driven forest management solutions and looks forward to supporting the passage of the Fix Our Forests Act in the Senate and it being signed into law. Together, we can secure our landscapes, wildlife and communities for generations to come.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.
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