H.R. 200: Forest Information Reform Act of 2024
Date: December 24, 2024
Sponsor: Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT)
Cosponsors: 60 other Republican and Democratic representatives
Summary:
The Forest Information Reform Act of 2024 (H.R. 200) aims to modernize and improve the way the U.S. Forest Service collects, analyzes, and disseminates information about national forests and grasslands. The bill seeks to address concerns about the accuracy, timeliness, and transparency of forest inventory data, which is used to inform land management decisions and policymaking.
Key Provisions:
- Improved Data Collection and Analysis: H.R. 200 requires the Forest Service to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to improve the accuracy and consistency of forest inventory data. This includes using advanced technologies such as remote sensing, aerial surveys, and field sampling.
- Real-Time Data Dissemination: The bill mandates the Forest Service to make forest inventory data available to the public in real-time through an online platform. This transparency will allow stakeholders including scientists, conservationists, and policymakers to access and analyze data in a timely manner.
- Citizen Science Engagement: H.R. 200 encourages the Forest Service to engage with citizen scientists and volunteer groups to supplement data collection efforts. This will broaden the scope and diversity of data sources.
- Independent Scientific Review: The bill establishes an independent scientific review panel to assess the Forest Service’s data collection and analysis methods. The panel will provide recommendations for improving data quality and ensuring scientific integrity.
- Research and Development: H.R. 200 authorizes funding for research and development to advance forest inventory technologies and improve data analysis capabilities.
Rationale:
Supporters of H.R. 200 argue that the current forest inventory system is outdated and inadequate, leading to unreliable data that can undermine land management decisions. Improved data collection and analysis will result in more accurate assessments of forest health, timber resources, and wildlife habitat. Real-time data dissemination and citizen science engagement will enhance public participation and transparency in forest management.
Opposition:
Critics of the bill contend that it duplicates existing efforts within the Forest Service and could be overly burdensome. They also raise concerns about the cost of implementing the new data collection and analysis requirements.
Status:
H.R. 200 was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 3, 2024. It was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, which held a hearing on the bill on February 14, 2024. The bill is currently in the markup phase and could be voted on by the committee in the coming weeks.
H.R. 200 (RH) – Forest Information Reform Act
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