Program Topics
Migratory Species
Migratory species like birds, bats, and butterflies play valuable ecological roles and benefit people. Despite their value, many of these species continue to face threats and their populations are declining. Forest Service International Programs works in partnership with local, national, and international organizations across the Americas on efforts to sustainably manage critical habitat for these species. These activities aim to prevent migratory species from becoming listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and decrease the number of species currently listed.
Invasive Species
The spread of invasive species is a global phenomenon that requires international coordination and cooperation. The Forest Service is a leader in detecting, monitoring, and treating for invasive species. International Programs supports collaborations between U.S. invasive species experts and their counterparts in other countries to improve management of non-native forest pests and pathogens already in the United States, as well as efforts to assess and mitigate risks of potential threats from destructive species before they arrive in North American forests
International Law Enforcement
Crimes that damage natural resources, like Illegal logging and wildlife trafficking, hurt people and the environment. Forest Service International Programs supports efforts to curb these crimes globally. The agency offers expertise in international policy, forest monitoring, law enforcement, wood identification, and other areas to support the detection, interdiction, and prosecution of illicit activities.
Disaster Assistance & Preparedness
Forest Service International Programs supports the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance to provide training and technical assistance in disaster preparedness, emergency response, and risk reduction. International Programs mobilizes a roster disaster management experts from the Forest Service and other domestic agencies to bolster the U.S. government’s response to disasters and alleviate human suffering during crisis. International Programs also works with partners around the globe to develop and fine tune their own disaster response systems before a disaster strikes.
Sustainable Forestry & Natural Resource Management
The Forest Service manages public lands for multiple uses, from outdoor recreation to timber production. This approach balances conservation goals with economic and development goals, which is relevant to both governments and NGOs. Tapping the expertise of the over 30,000 agency employees, Forest Service International Programs shares knowledge around the world on sustainable forest management, rangeland management, biodiversity conservation, and protected areas management. To address climate change, International Programs promotes sustainable management practices of forests and grasslands, which are key to curbing emissions and sequestering carbon.
More About Forest Service International Programs
Wood Identification and Screening Center