The Forest Service says it's closing offices to cut costs. But the math doesn't add up
The U.S. Forest Service is closing several research facilities, including one in Baltimore, to cut costs. Critics argue that the closures could undermine valuable research and partnerships that benefit local communities. The agency's budget proposal for 2027 also suggests a significant reduction in funding for research activities.
- ▪The Forest Service announced a reorganization that includes closing research facilities and regional offices.
- ▪President Trump's budget proposal for 2027 allocates $0 for Forest Service research, down from $309 million in 2026.
- ▪Documents and interviews indicate that many research facilities are cost-effective and closing them could lead to a loss of expertise.
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Exclusive Investigations The Forest Service says it's closing offices to cut costs. But the math doesn't add up June 6, 20265:00 AM ET Chiara Eisner Former Forest Service researcher, Morgan Grove, examines a white oak tree planted by agency scientists in the Cylburn Arboretum in Baltimore, MD. KT Kanazawich for NPR hide caption toggle caption KT Kanazawich for NPR When dead trees fall in Baltimore, the city doesn't pay thousands of dollars to dump them in landfills like some cities do. The trees are transported to a sorting and recycling facility that turns the old wood into furniture, flooring and other products. The facility makes money for Baltimore and has become a model for other cities.
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