WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) introduced the bipartisan Forest Data Modernization Act of 2023 to modernize and improve the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program and ensure reliable data is available to inform forest management decision making.
“Louisiana thrives when we use our natural resources efficiently, including timber,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This bill uses new data to better manage our forests and support Louisiana foresters as they grow.”
SEN. OSSOFF QUOTE
The bill would require the Forest Service to prepare an updated strategic plan to expand data collection and further integrate advanced remote sensing technology. According to the forestry industry, the improvements would unlock new economic opportunities for foresters and better protect the environment.
The bill is backed by the National Alliance of Forest Owners and the American Forest Foundation.
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