President Donald Trump recently signed a new executive order that could have far-reaching implications for endangered species, climate change, and local economies. This order, entitled the “Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production,” aims to expand tree felling across 280 million acres of U.S. national forests and other public lands for timber. While the administration claims this move will curb wildfires and protect communities, conservation groups are sounding the alarm, warning of disastrous consequences.
Chad Hanson, a wildfire scientist with the John Muir Project, described this executive order as the most blatant attempt in U.S. history by a president to give federal public lands to the logging industry. He emphasized that the order is built on a lie, as scientific evidence overwhelmingly shows that more logging can actually exacerbate wildfires and harm communities. Despite these concerns, the order sets an annual target for timber sales, potentially leading to widespread clear-cutting.
In a press release, Earthjustice expressed concerns about the impact of this order, which could open the door for extensive logging on federal forests. The recent appointment of Tom Schultz, a former timber company executive, as chief of the U.S. Forest Service further underscores worries about the administration’s priorities. Anna Medema, from the Sierra Club, criticized this move, stating that it indicates a desire to sell off national forests to corporate interests rather than preserving them for future generations.
Experts have raised legal questions about the order, particularly regarding its potential violation of Endangered Species Act (ESA) rules. By seeking to increase domestic timber production and reverse federal policies, the administration is facing scrutiny for its approach to environmental protection. The order’s emphasis on reducing wildfire risk through vegetation thinning has drawn criticism from scientists who argue that such practices can actually elevate the risk of fast-moving wildfires.
Blaine Miller-McFeeley, a senior legislative representative at Earthjustice, expressed concerns about the impact of increased logging on forests, wildlife habitats, and climate change. He emphasized the need for science-driven solutions that truly protect natural resources and communities. Similarly, Josh Hicks from The Wilderness Society criticized the order as a short-sighted giveaway to extractive industries that could harm forests in the long run.
The ESA laws that Trump seeks to circumvent protect around 400 species living in national forests, including threatened species like grizzly bears, wild salmon, and spotted owls. Environmental groups have warned that increased logging could have broader consequences, including pollution of water supplies for millions of people. Randi Spivak, from the Center for Biological Diversity, described the order as a move that could lead to clear-cutting, increased fire risk, species extinction, and environmental degradation.
As the administration pushes forward with its plans to expand timber production on public lands, it faces growing opposition from conservation groups and environmental advocates. The battle over the future of U.S. forests and wildlife continues, highlighting the need for informed, science-based approaches to land management and conservation.
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Cristen, a writer of fiction and nonfiction, holds a JD and an Ocean & Coastal Law Certificate from the University of Oregon School of Law, as well as an MA in Creative Writing from Birkbeck, University of London. She is the author of The Smallest of Entryways, a collection of short stories, and Ernest’s Way: An International Journey Through Hemingway’s Life.
