Trump Administration dismantling US Forest Service, Sparks Strong Criticism

April 10, 2026 – The administration of Donald Trump has announced a major overhaul of the U.S. Forest Service, a move that has triggered sharp criticism from experts and environmental groups.

According to an official statement released on Tuesday, the agency’s headquarters will be moved from Washington, DC to Salt Lake City, Utah. The restructuring plan also includes shutting down all ten regional offices across the country.

Under the new system, the regional structure will be replaced by around fifteen political appointees, described as “state directors.” Supporters say this will make management more direct, while critics argue it could increase political influence over environmental decisions.

The changes go further, with more than fifty scientific and research centers in 31 states expected to be closed. Scientists have raised serious concerns, warning that long-term ecological research projects could be permanently damaged if facilities are relocated or shut down.

Experts say such research often depends on consistent data collected over many years. Interruptions or relocation could make the data unusable, effectively ending decades of work.

The restructuring comes alongside broader reductions in staffing and funding. Reports suggest that more than 25 percent of staff in land management agencies have already been cut. In addition, there is a proposal to reduce the Forest Service budget by nearly one-third.

Critics have described the move as a major blow to one of the country’s oldest environmental agencies, which has been operating for over 120 years. They warn it could weaken forest management, wildfire response, and conservation efforts.

Supporters within the administration argue that the changes are necessary to improve efficiency and reduce costs. However, the debate continues, with many questioning the long-term impact on public lands and environmental protection in the United States.