Planning
This section is for visitors who would like to get an understanding of the big picture. Here you can learn what the Forest Service is doing on local lands, and what guides policy, including presentations and explanations of the Forest Plan, framework setting analyses (such as Watershed analysis), and projects that update the plan.
NFMA (National Forest Management Act) requires each National Forest to develop a Forest Plan and update or revise it when conditions have significantly changed, or at least every 15 years. The Forest Plans for the Malheur, Umatilla, and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests are being revised to incorporate new information, current science, and changed conditions for the Blue Mountains region.
- Land and Resource Management Plan
- Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)
- Record of Decision (ROD)
- Amendment #29
View information about aquatic restoration projects at Malheur National Forest where restoration activities aid in the recovery of aquatic species and impaired water bodies.
Aquatic Restoration Analysis
- Forest Management Direction for Large Diameter Tree Decision Notice and FONSI 2021
- Appendix B, 1995
- 1994 DN
- 1994 EA
- 1995 DN
- 1995 EA
The Malheur National Forest is using an integrated approach to manage invasive plants, which includes prevention; manual, mechanical, herbicide, biological control and cultural treatments; and restoration work. This work to prevent the expansion of infestations will be implemented under the 2015 decision for the Malheur Site-Specific Invasive Plants Treatment Project and the Forest Plan amended by the Pacific Northwest Region 2005 decision for Preventing and Managing Invasive Plants.
The Austin Project aims to support local economic vitality, reduce wildfire risk to communities and firefighters, and improve watershed function by implementing various fuels and vegetation treatments. The proposed treatments would authorize a suite of forest management activities on 78,200 acres including vegetation treatments on 35,946 acres, fuels treatments on up to 76,700 acres, 1 road relocation (2 miles), and other associated restoration treatments. Effective implementation of this project will provide up to 90 million board feet of timber to the forest products industry.
Why This Work Is Needed
- Healthier trees: Overcrowded trees remain small and stressed. Thinning gives them space to build stronger crowns and roots.
- Better wildlife habitat: More sunlight encourages understory plants and supports a wider mix of habitat structures over time.
- Improved stream corridors: Larger riparian trees provide future shade and instream wood, improving habitat for salmon, steelhead, and bull trout.
- More resilient landscapes: Reducing stand density to increase forest health and resilience.
- Community resilience: Forest management creates jobs in local communities and reduces risks to those communities from severe wildfires.
How We Work with Tribes and Partners
The Forest Service has invited government-to-government consultation and continues to meet with Tribes whose usual and accustomed areas overlap the project. Tribal perspectives inform resource protection, design considerations, and cultural awareness.
The Forest also collaborates with state agencies, local governments, industry, and conservation organizations.
How to Read the Documents
- The draft environmental impact statement provides:
- The purpose and ecological rationale for thinning,
- The proposed action and alternatives,
- Expected effects to wildlife, water, fire, scenery, and other resources,
- Map of potential treatment areas,
- Adherence to law, regulation, and policy.
For a quick entry point:
- Start with the Proposed Action,
- Review the map for where work may occur,
- Explore the Effects Sections for topics you care most about.
How to Comment Effectively
Your comments help strengthen the final analysis. Helpful comments are:
- Specific: Identify locations or resources of concern.
- Linked to the EIS: Reference sections, map, or figures when possible.
- Solution-oriented: Offer suggestions or alternatives if you see an issue.
- Timely: Submit during the 45-day comment period for your input to be considered.
- Examples are included to guide commenters, making participation more accessible and useful for decision makers.
How to Submit Comments
A comment portal link will be posted once the draft is released.
Comments may be submitted:
- Online: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=53678
- By mail: Blue Mountain Ranger District at 431 Patterson Bridge Road, John Day, OR 97845
All comments become part of the public record.
What Happens After You Comment
After the comment period:
- Specialists review and evaluate all comments,
- Clarifications or changes may be made to the analysis,
- The Forest Service will publish a Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision approving the project.