TWS raises concerns over USDA reorganization plan

The Wildlife Society has submitted formal comments opposing key elements of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s proposed reorganization plan, citing insufficient information, potential impacts to conservation professionals, and threats to science-based natural resource management.

In August 2025, the USDA released its reorganization proposal (SM 1078-015), emphasizing cost reduction and administrative efficiency through consolidation of regional offices and research facilities. However, as TWS noted in its comments, the plan contains significant gaps in implementation details. This lack of detail makes it nearly impossible for stakeholders to meaningfully evaluate the proposal. As TWS noted, bypassing established Federal Register processes in favor of email submissions removes all transparency from the review process.

TWS members, whose comments were compiled into the Society’s final submission, provided feedback highlighting how the proposal would impact conservation programs implemented by the U.S. Forest Service in particular.

“The Forest Service’s network of forest research labs is renowned worldwide for its critical delivery of science focused on forest systems, biodiversity, and conservation of wildlife habitat. Much of this research has been, and continues to be, implemented across years and decades. The consolidation of research stations and elimination of regional infrastructure could significantly impair the Forest Service’s ability to conduct place-based research and provide essential knowledge to management recommendations tailored to local ecosystems and conditions.”

TWS comments to the USDA also highlight broader concerns about the devaluing of skilled conservation professionals and the lack of prioritization of science in agency decision-making. The loss of regional USDA staff resulting from the proposed reorganization could undermine scientific input in land management decisions affecting millions of acres of public lands and the wildlife they support. TWS provided several specific recommendations to the USDA before proceeding with reorganization, including maintaining the regional research infrastructure of the Forest Service, conducting a thorough impact assessment to identify potential impacts to wildlife and habitat conservation, and supporting a thorough and transparent stakeholder review process.

Read TWS’ full comments here.