National Forests Announces Land Management Planning

Due to the effects from Hurricane Katrina on the National Forests in Mississippi, efforts were delayed on the Land Management Planning. According to National Forests in Mississippi Forest Supervisor Tony Dixon, “We had to shift emphasis and resources to respond to and begin recovery from the devastation caused by Katrina. We will continue with our plan revision efforts with a focus on those districts that were not heavily impacted by Katrina, primarily the Delta, Holly Springs, Homochitto, and Tombigbee National Forests. We will resume plan revision efforts on the Bienville and De Soto National Forests at the appropriate time.”

Forest Planning is an important part of natural resource management. Significant agency resources are committed to the timely and successful completion of Revised Management plans. The Forest Plan sets the general direction for management of all resources on a national forest, resources such as recreational opportunities, clean water, wildlife, timber, and minerals. The Forest Service faces significant land management issues, with much of the focus on stewardship for the long-term desired future condition of the land.