Rep. Moore's Bipartisan Bill Aims to Modernize Forest Data Collection

National Desk Editor -

Washington, D.C. – In a rare show of bipartisan cooperation, Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL) and Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) have introduced the Forest Data Modernization Act, aimed at upgrading the technology and methods used in the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program. The Senate version of the bill is being led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA).

Rep. Moore emphasized the importance of modern data collection for Alabama’s forestry sector, stating, “Alabama foresters deserve updated technology and easily accessible data to help meet the demands of a rapidly growing market.” He praised the bill for ensuring that foresters and stakeholders have access to standardized, high-quality data to support sustainable decision-making.

For Rep. Schrier, the bill is crucial for addressing wildfire risks, particularly in the West. “Mitigating risk in our forests has become ever more important with increasing intensity of wildfires,” she said. “Land managers and fire chiefs need reliable information about forest health to effectively prevent catastrophic fire and perform restoration work afterward.”

The Forest Data Modernization Act includes several key provisions:

• Improved Data Accessibility – The FIA would be required to publish summary statistics every two years and establish a fee-for-service program for handling complex data requests.
• Enhanced Usability – The bill mandates that FIA data include clear definitions and that forest carbon measurements be standardized, improving the consistency of datasets used by forestry professionals.
• Advanced Data Collection – The legislation encourages the use of new technologies such as satellite sensors and computer models to enhance accuracy and reduce costs. It also ensures the continuation of critical surveys on wood usage and forest landownership.
• Increased Transparency – FIA’s strategic plan would need to be updated regularly, with updates every five years and annual publication of costs and priorities.

Sen. Cassidy highlighted the economic benefits of modernizing forestry data, saying, “New data is a fantastic opportunity to better manage and support our forests.” Sen. Ossoff echoed these sentiments, adding, “Georgia leads the nation in forestry. This bipartisan bill will support the efficient management of Georgia’s forests.”

The bill has drawn support from forestry stakeholders who argue that better data is essential for sustainable management, wildfire prevention, and economic growth in the timber industry. If passed, the legislation could mark a significant step toward a more data-driven approach to forest management nationwide.