USDA FOREST SERVICE

FY 1999

ANNUAL PERFORMANCE REPORT

March 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................... 1 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems 

Objectives: 

 1.1: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Aquatic Ecosystems ................................................ 10 

 1.2: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Forest and Rangeland Ecosystems........................ 12 

 1.3: Native Species Habitat Capable of Sustaining Viable Populations...................... 15 

 1.4: Respond to Hazardous Substance Sites............................................................... 16 

1.5: Populations of TE&S species are conserved through recovery and 

management efforts............................................................................................... 17 

1.6 Better ecosystem management decisions based on the best available 

scientific and management information................................................................. 19 

 1.7 Naturally functioning wilderness ecosystems where conditions are 

determined primarily by natural forces ................................................................... 21 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems 

Objectives:

 2.1: Quality recreation experiences with minimal impacts to ecosystem stability 

and condition .......................................................................................................... 22 

 2.2: Protected and restored heritage resources that are available for the 

education and use of current and future generations............................................ 24 

 2.3: Improved urban environments and enhanced community livability throoough 

healthy landscapes ................................................................................................ 25 

 2.4: Economically healthy and diversified rural communities operating under 

strategic plans for sustainable development ......................................................... 26 

 2.5: A sustainable yield of forest products that contributes to meeting the 

Nation’s demands and to restoring, improvinng or maintaining forest 

ecosystem health................................................................................................... 27 

 2.6: A sustainable supply of forage on suitable and capable lands for livestock 

and wildlife ............................................................................................................. 28 

 2.7: Available mineral resources that comply with environmental and heallth 

standards ............................................................................................................... 30 

 2.8: Better resource management decisions based on the best available 

scientiiific and management inforrmation .............................................................. 30 

 2.9: Proovide a safe environment for the public and employees on National 

Forest System Lands............................................................................................. 31 

 2.10:Provide for special uses and protect National Forest System Land Title.............. 32 

 2.11:Provide multiple benefits for people within the capabilities of ecosystems ........... 34 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness 

Management Initiative: 

 3.1: An innovative, people-oriented work environment and workforce that is 

representative of society as a whole and that services all customers equally ....... 35 

 3.2: All customers receive better service....................................................................... 37 

 3.3: Integrated information systems, data structures and information 

management processes in place to support the agency’s mission ........................ 39 

 3.4: A sound financial system which supports resource decisions with timely, 

accurate information and financial expertise .......................................................... 39 

 3.5: An effective and efficient administrative organization that supports the 

Forest Service Mission ........................................................................................... 41 

Appendix A – Performance Indicators Discontinued or Modified In the FY 2000/FY 2001 

Performance Plan 
FOREST SERVICE 

FY 1999 ANNUAL PROGRAM PERFORMANCE REPORT 

Since passage of the Organic Administration Act of June 4, 1897, the Forest Service continues to provide 

leadership in the management, protection, and use of the Nation’s forest, rangeland, and aquatic 

ecosystems. Today’s National Forest System consists of 192 million acres in 44 states, Puerto Rico, and 

the Virgin Islands. Through its research organization, the Forest Service remains a world leader in the 

discovery of solutions to natural resource related challenges in areas ranging from urban and tropical 

forestry to recreation management and forest product utilization. The State and Private Forestry 

organization works with State, local, and tribal governments and private landowners to help maintain and 

improve the health and productivity of the Nation’s urban and rural forests and related economies. 

The USDA Forest Service mission is to sustain the health, productivity and diversity of the land to meet 

the needs of present and future generations. The phrase “Caring for the Land and Serving People” 

expresses the spirit of this mission. Conserving and restoring the health of the land is the principle 

underlying every Forest Service program: Healthy land is fundamental to human well-being and to 

providing a sustainable flow of goods and services. This approach to management, where goods and 

services are provided within the capability of the resource base, is referred to as an “ecosystems 

approach” to land and water management or, more succinctly, ecosystems management. 

Ecosystems management considers ecological, economic, and social factors in determining how best to 

maintain and enhance the quality of the environment to meet current and future needs for recreation, 

water, timber, minerals, fish, wildlife, and wilderness on national forest lands. It also involves 

collaboration with partners ranging from other Federal land management agencies to private individuals 

and groups in urban and rural areas across the country. Domestically and internationally, activities will be 

directed at developing values, products and services in such a way as to maintain ecosystems health. 

The agency will continue to develop and use the best available scientific information to facilitate 

achievement of our goals and objectives. 

More information regarding the USDA Forest Service can be found in the Forest Service Strategic and 

Annual Performance Plans. Only federal employees were involved in the preparation of this report. 

The following table provides summary information on USDA Forest Service achievement of FY 1999 

Performance Goals. 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

1.1: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Aquatic Ecosystems 

Improve and protect wetland, riparian, and aquatic functions, 

processes, and associated values by restoring impaired soil and water 

conditions and improving inland and anadromous fish habitat in 

unsatisfactory condition: 

Streams and lakes restored or enhanced for fish habitat: 

a) inland stream miles 1,301 1,164 

b) anadromous stream miles 536 715 

c) inland lake acres 7,930 11,362 

d) anadromous lake acres 5,161 4,939 

Soil and water resource improvements – lands restored or 

enhanced (acres) 20,000 35,562 

Road decommissioning and stabilization (miles) 3,000 2,907 

Abandoned Mine Land (AML) watershed initiative activities 4 2 

Administer 60% of all energy and nonenergy mining operations to 

standard: 

Bonded nonenergy/energy operations administered to standards: 

a) number of operations 7,700 7,223 

Goal 1: 

Ensure 

Sustainable 

Ecosystems 

b) percent of operations 60% 79% 
2 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

1.2: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Forestlands 

Restore forested lands identified as needing restoration and use a 

variety of treatments to maintain, improve, and restore forested lands 

to ensure ecological integrity: 

Lands restored by reforestation (acres) 269,443 267,013 

Treatment of harvest related woody fuels – brush disposal (acres) 107,200 108,896 

Land ownership consolidation through acquisition and exchange 

(acres) 114,300 488,835 

Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or enhanced (acres) 185,185 184,527 

Forestlands maintained or enhanced by stand improvement 

(acres) 218,576 262,786 

Hazardous fuels reduction (acres) 1,379,900 1,412,281 

Encourage restoration efforts on non-industrial private forest (NIPF) 

lands through Stewardship Management Plans, Stewardship 

practices, and watershed restoration activities: 

Non-Industrial Private Forests (NIPF) Stewardship Management 

Plans (number) 19,500 17,085 

NIPF lands under approved Stewardship Management Plans 

(acres) 2,470,000 1,866,000 

Multi-resource practices implemented on NIPF lands (acres) 0 0 

Legacy Project Acquisition (acres) 9,000 19,281 

Legacy Project Acquisition (projects) 18 13 

Statewide assessment of needs (states) 3 2 

Value of FEPP equipment loaned to States (million dollars) $89.2 $133.0 

Forest health surveys and evaluations, Federal and Cooperative 

lands (million acres) 772 788 

1.3: Ensure healthy and diverse Rangelands 

Aggressively treat noxious weed infestations that pose a threat to 

rangeland health 

Noxious weeds treated (acres) 51,410 87,000 

Improve rangelands through non-structural improvements 

Nonstructural range improvements completed (acres) 29,930 28,123 

Restore NFS lands identified as needing work to improve rangelands 

to a condition that supports native and desirable non-native species as 

defined by land and resource management plan standards 

Rangelands monitored for progress toward desired condition in 

Allotment Management Plans (acres) 4,384,950 6,582,982 

1.4: Respond to Hazardous Substance Sites 

Restore and protect aquatic and terrestrial resources through 

hazardous substance site responses under the Comprehensive 

Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) 

Hazardous substance sites characterized 

54 

 21 

Hazardous substance site cleanups completed 17 29 

Watershed or major abandoned mine land (AML) site cleanup 

actions initiated under CERCLA (also see objective 1.1) 3 15 

1.5: Protect Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TE&S) 

Species 

Work with regulatory agencies and others to conserve species listed 

as threatened or endangered, or identified as sensitive 

Terrestrial TE&S habitat restored or enhanced (acres) 113,547 82,247 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or enhanced 

a) stream miles 179 315 

b) lake acres 93 45 

10 percent of the approximately 2,100 identified sensitive species will 

have a conservation agreement and/or strategy completed to guide 

resource management efforts 

Conservation agreements and strategies (number of sensitive 

aquatic and terrestrial species) 204 TBD 

Fully implement approved recovery plans for threatened and 

endangered species 

Approved and implemented recovery plans (number of listed 

aquatic and terrestrial species) 65 TBD 
3 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

1.6: Develop Scientific and Management Information to Support 

Sustainable Ecosystem Management 

Provide forest-level integrated inventory on a 10-year cycle and 

assessments at several scales of resources on and affecting NFS 

lands to support formulation of policy, programs, and both forest-level 

and project decision-making 

Ecological assessments completed (number): 

a) Ecoregion (Domain/Division/Province) Scale 2 2 

b) Eco-subregion (Section/River Basin/Sub-basin) Scale 17 19 

c) Landscape/Watershed Scale 113 169 

Terrestrial Ecologic Unit Inventories (thousand acres) 

a) Eco-subregion (Section/Subsection) Scale 1,395 18,669 

b) Landscape Scale 5,784 17,276 

c) Land Unit Scale 15,186 7,874 

Aquatic Ecologic Unit Inventories 

a) Riverine Valley Segment (miles) 36,756 12,149 

b) Riverine Stream Reach/Channel Unit (miles) 1,954 1,646 

c) Lacustrine Lake Type Scale (acres) 36,829 7,074 

d) Lacustrine Lake Zone/Site Scale (acres) 782 20,113 

Biological Inventories (thousand acres) 

a) Forest Resource Inventories 36,378 22,536 

b) Rangeland Resource Inventory 4,789 2,944 

c) Wildlife Habitat Inventory 1,828 2,905 

d) TE&S Species Habitat Inventory 2,309 4,440 

Human Dimensions Inventory 849 1,571 

Monitor and evaluate forest and rangeland conditions relative to 

desired resource conditions consistent with the Criteria and Indicators 

for Sustainable Forest Management 

Air Quality Related Values Inventoried/Monitored (AQRVs) 521 998 

Develop and provide to managers scientific and technical information 

needed to manage and sustain the forest and rangelands of the 

Nation 

Scientific papers (number) 1,192 1,050 

Customer satisfaction survey with research information NA NA 

1.7: Protect Natural Wilderness Ecosystem Related Values 

Ensure that Congressionally designated wilderness and their 

associated ecosystems are influenced by natural processes from 

human-caused degradation 

Wilderness covered by approved fire plan (acres) 41,100 NA 

Wilderness meeting Forest Plan standards for physical and social 

conditions (acres) 31,300 NA 

2.1: Provide Quality Recreation Experiences 

Offer outstanding opportunities for solitude and primitive or unconfined 

outdoor recreation while reducing the backlog of trail reconstruction 

Trails reconstructed to standard 1,537 1,749 

Seasonal recreation capacity available (million persons at one time 

days) 184.8 203.4 

Annual wilderness & “Leave No Trace” education contacts 551,000 NA 

Provide additional recreation opportunities, including special uses 

such as outfitter, guide, and concessionaire operations 

Recreation special uses administered - number of permit 22,633 23,792 

Measure and improve on customer satisfaction with recreation 

experiences on NFS land 

Customer satisfaction survey with recreation special use permit NA NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with facilities, access, & information NA NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with Forest Service visitor centers NA NA 

2.2: Provide for Heritage Resource Education and Use 

Identify sites for future scientific evaluation, protection, and 

interpretation efforts 

Heritage sites evaluated (number of sites) 4,527 4,175 

Heritage sites interpreted (number of sites) 796 593 

Goal 2: 

Provide 

Multiple 

Benefits for 

People within 

the 

Capabilities of 

Ecosystems 

Maintain visitor satisfaction through awareness and participation in 

inventory, site evaluation, restoration, and protection from vandalism 

Heritage sites preserved/protected (number of sites) 3,354 4,345 
4 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

2.3: Support Improved Urban Environments 

Increase assistance to eligible communities to increase local 

capacities to assess, expand, and improve urban environments 

Participating communities (number) 9,267 11,101 

Technical assistance to communities (numbers) 13,185 11,020 

Training provided (million hours) 1.2 1.4 

Volunteer assistance generated (million hours) 1.5 1.2 

2.4: Support Healthy and Diverse Rural Communities 

Increase the number of assisted rural communities working under 

broad-based local strategic plans by 3 percent, in striving to reach the 

Strategic Plan’s goal of 50 percent of all assisted communities 

operating under such plans by 2002 

Communities working under broad-based local strategic plans 

(number) 850 740 

Communities using locally-based measurement systems 355 429 

Assistance to tribal and minority communities (number) 190 195 

Communities & volunteer fire departments assisted (number of 

grants) 2,391 2,450 est. 

State foresters rate overall satisfaction with cooperative fire 

protection program NA NA 

2.5: Provide for Sustainable Yield of Wood and Forest Products 

Provide a sustainable supply of forest products from NFS lands and 

encourage and support other landowners to do the same 

Timber volume offered (million cubic feet) 701.0 436.5 

Timber volume sold (million cubic feet) 701.0 396.0 

Increased use of underutilized species (million cubic feet) 6.3 6.3 

Customer satisfaction survey with timber sale and contract 

program NA NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with special forest product permit 

system NA NA 

2.6: Provide for Sustainable Grazing Use 

Meet or move toward land and resource management plan objectives 

to support healthy native populations of wildlife, aquatic, and TE&S 

species 

Range structural improvements (number) 1,198 1,322 

Allotments administered to standard (number) 4,389 4,235 

Complete grazing allotments and implement NEPA decisions on 

schedule 

Grazing allotments analyzed and NEPA decisions signed (number) 718 464 

Customer satisfaction survey with grazing permit process NA NA 

2.7: Support Ecologically Sound Minerals Production 

Complete NEPA analyses in a timely manner, monitor operations, and 

ensure that mineral activities are done in an ecologically acceptable 

manner 

Bonded and non-bonded non-energy operations processed 

(number) 10,905 11,976 

Energy operations processed (number) 375 271 

Customer satisfaction survey with oil & gas leasing, drilling, and 

production permit program NA NA 

2.8: Develop Scientific and Management Information to Support 

Improved Natural Resource Management and Use 

Acquire, analyze, and interpret information needed to evaluate 

implementation of land and resource management plans 

Land and resource management plan monitoring and evaluation 

(number of plans) 125 94 

State of the region evaluation reports (number of reports) 9 7 

Interpret monitoring results and collect and analyze information to 

develop new land and resource management plans or revisions 

Land and resource management plan revisions, new plans initiated 14 9 

Land and resource management plan revisions, new plans 

completed 2 2 

Develop and provide to managers scientific and technical information 

needed to manage and sustain the forest and rangelands of the nation 

Technical reports (number) 1,526 1,455 

Inventory field plots remeasured (percent) 6% 6% est. 
5 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

2.9: Provide a Safe Environment for the Public and Employees 

on National Forest System Lands NA NA 

2.10: Provide for Special Uses and Protect National Forest 

System Land Title 

Survey, mark, and maintain 10 percent of agency boundary lines to 

standard 

New boundary marked to standard (miles) 1,050 1,028 

Rights-of-way (cases) 342 332 

Be responsive to applications for new authorizations 

Special use permits processed 4,458 5,984 

Administer special use authorizations to meet public health and safety 

standards 

Permits administered to standard 19,457 18,726 

Hydropower license renewals 90 TBD 

Provide geometronics data for planning and management 

Revised primary base series quads maintained to standard (no.) 500 697 

Revised secondary base series quads maintained to standard (no.) 20 26 

2.11: Provide for Safe Infrastructure and Access to National 

Forest System Lands 

Maintain and restore existing infrastructure to protect capital 

investments where they provide safe, efficient and environmentally 

suitable support for agency activities and public use 

System roads maintained to standard (percent of total) 18% 26% 

Investments in existing roads (miles) 2,774 3,558 

Bridges inspected as scheduled 90% NA 

Bridges constructed or maintained to improve sufficiency rating 

points FY 98 +3 NA 

Dams inspected as scheduled (percent) 95% NA 

Facilities reconstructed or replaced to meet current legal standards 

(projects completed) 32 29 

Customer satisfaction survey with recreation related facilities & 

access NA NA 

3.1: An innovative, people-oriented work environment and 

workforce representative of society as a whole and that 

serves all customers equally 

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in the workforce 

(percent of total) 48.7% 

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in leadership 

positions (percent of positions GS-13 and above) 34.5% 

Opportunities for increased participation (number served): 

Youth Conservation Corps 717 

Job Corps 8,623 

Senior Community Service Employment Program 5,221 

Implementation of USDA civil rights initiative (percent of related 

indicators) 78.4% 

Employee participation in CIP survey (percent of workforce) 65% 46% 

3.2: All customers received better service 

Offer to all customers, contactors, suppliers and vendors 

opportunity to conduct electronic financial transactions 

Emphasis on full 

implementation of 

IBM system. 

Electronic 

payments by 

agency available. 

Establish internal enterprise teams to improve management 

efficiency of National Forests in California

Evaluation of 

initial efforts 

Evaluations 

completed. 

Offer toll-free telephone, world-wide-web, and automated 

applications to all permittees and applicants of most frequently 

requested special use permits

Emphasis on full 

implementation of 

IBM system. 

All but toll-free 

telephone access 

is available. 

Improve service to public land users by providing one-stop 

shopping for information, permits, and other frequently 

requested over the counter products and services at BLM and 

Forest Service facilities

Service first plans 

completed for 

each BLM district 

and FS forest. 

“Service first” 

plans completed 

on a statewide 

basis. 

Goal 3: 

Ensure 

Organizational 

Effectiveness 

Provide an integrated nationwide outdoor recreation information 

system that gives all Americans quick and easy access to the 

BLM, Park Service, and Forest Service, including recreation use 

permits and reservations

Evaluate, revise, 

and improve 

system. 

Access to system 

is available on 

internet at the 

interactive web 

site featuring user 

improvements 

made in FY 1999. 
6 

FOREST SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

Performance 

Strategic Goal FY 1999 Performance Goals Target Actual 

Customer satisfaction surveys completed (number) 5 5 

Follow-up analyses NA 24 

3.3: Integrated information systems, data structures and 

information management processes in place to support the 

agency’s mission 

IBM system users (percent of employees) 100% 100% 

Mission critical systems tested and found to be Y2K compliant 

(percent of total) 100% 100% 

3.4: A sound financial system which supports resource 

decisions with timely, accurate information and financial 

expertise 

FFIS implemented 3 pilot units 3 pilot units 

Real property inventory completed Yes Yes, partially 

Timber sales accounting system implemented Yes Yes 

Financial management reports developed showing obligations 

direct/indirect costs and performance indicator costs 

Prototype 

completed 

Partially 

completed 

Unqualified audit opinion No Audit not yet 

completed. 

Audit items from the Secretary’s Management Report eliminated No Yes, partially 

Delinquent debts referred to Treasury for offset and cross-servicing 

(percent) NA NA 

3.5: An effective and efficient administrative organization that 

supports the Forest Service Mission NA 

Forest Service Performance Planning Transition Efforts 

The Forest Service is making substantial changes to its budgeting, performance planning and reporting 

efforts. Two budgeting changes will affect how it manages and reports on various activities and results. 

The first is a change to primary purpose budgeting, which will affect funding levels in various line items 

but should have a minimal impact on program performance levels. The second is a change in the 

number of budget line items. Both of these changes will reduce complexity, improve management, and 

facilitate the ability to relate program results to budget levels. 

Another important change that will occur in FY 2000 is revision to the Forest Service strategic plan. The 

strategic plan is a critical part of the changing management structure envisioned under the Government 

Performance and Results Act. It establishes long-term goals and objectives focusing on results and 

outcomes. The revised strategic plan (2000 Revision) is currently out for public review and will be 

finalized in September 2000. 

The draft 2000 Revision focuses on outcomes or results to be achieved over a period of time. These 

outcomes will be achieved by managing the lands and resources of the National Forest System, 

delivering technical assistance through State and Private Forestry programs, making use of scientific 

information from Research and Development programs, and improving the management of and 

accountability for these activities. This focus on outcomes or long-term results, such as the health of the 

land, the quality of water, and customer satisfaction, represents an important change in focus for the 

USDA Forest Service. 

The four goals of the draft 2000 Revision address ecosystem health, multiple benefits for people, 

scientific and technical assistance, and effective public service. Associated with each goal are objectives, 

strategies to achieve the objectives, and measures of progress. Collectively, these components of the 

strategic plan provide purpose and context for future management actions and investments, as well as a 

set of milestones for evaluating progress toward the goals. The measures and all information associated 

with them will be of audit quality. 

Annual performance plans will address specific management actions and investments needed to ensure 

progress toward the goals and objectives of the strategic plan. Annual budget proposals will seek the 
7 

funding needed to deliver the annual actions and investments, as intended under the Results Act. Future 

program evaluations and performance reports will consider progress being made toward the long-term 

goals and objectives of the strategic plan. The efficacy of the selected long-term measures, as indicators 

of the results achieved, will also be evaluated in the future. 

These changes should result in substantial improvement in how the Forest Service manages its programs 

and reports on results and accomplishments. Because the current strategic and annual performance 

plans does not have quantifiable milestones, the Forest Service has not been able to objectively evaluate 

the contribution of its annual accomplishments, as defined by the annual performance goals and 

measures, towards achieving either the strategic long-term goals or objectives. The revised Strategic 

Plan, once adopted, will lead to extensive changes in the Forest Service annual performance plan for FY 

2001. The FY 2001 annual performance plan will contain a different set of performance measures. In 

addition, due to timing issues in finalizing the FY 2001 request as well as the changes in the budget 

format, targets for FY 2000 and FY 2001 reported in this document may not be consistent with those 

reported in the FY 2001 performance plan and budget justification. If differences occur, the performance 

plan and budget justification will contain more accurate targets. 

FY 1999 Accomplishments Reported 

Forest Service accomplishments reported in this report represent key performance measures that, for the 

most part, are funded with appropriated dollars. In addition to these accomplishments, the forest service 

also conducts activities and achieves additional accomplishments by using trust fund dollars and by 

relying on efforts of other contributors, such as state and local governments, other organizations, or 

individual volunteers. Typically, performance targets are set only for accomplishments resulting from 

appropriated funds. Targets are not generally set for contributor efforts or trust fund activities because 

Forest Service program managers have less control over these resources. These additional 

accomplishments are not reported here to ensure a fair comparison with targets; since accomplishments 

are only set for appropriated dollars, only activities accomplished with appropriated dollars are shown. 

Any exceptions to this are noted in the report. 

Crosscutting Data Issues 

Due to its decentralized structure and wide scope of programs and activities, the USDA Forest Service 

maintains several systems to track performance and provide management information. These include the 

following: 

• Management Attainment Reporting (MAR) system used mainly for the National Forest System 

programs 

• Performance Measures Accountability System (PMAS) used for State and Private Forestry to track 

cooperative forestry programs 

• Research Budget Attainment Information System (RBAIS) used by Research and Development 

• Wildlife, Fish, and Rare Plants (WFRP) used to track species and habitat programs 

• Infrastructure database (INFRA) used to maintain and track information on Forest Service 

infrastructure assets 

In addition to these systems, program staff track several of the performance indicators included in this 

report. Steps taken to validate and ensure quality control of data for specific measures or indicators will 

be discussed throughout the report. 

RBAIS and WFRP apply to only a small set of indicators. They will be described under the objectives 

where those indicators are presented. The section below provides a general description of the data and 

some general concerns regarding the quality of data from MAR and PMAS used for performance 

indicators used throughout this report. 

MAR: MAR is used to set performance targets toward the start of the fiscal year and report on 

accomplishments at the end of each fiscal year. Each Forest Service region is assigned an 
8 

accomplishment target for select MAR items after final appropriations and allocation decisions are made. 

Often, regions request mid-year adjustments to their MAR targets to reflect changes in priorities, needs, 

costs, or resources. These adjustments may occur after the final version of the Performance Plan is 

completed, which means MAR targets differ from Performance Plan targets included in this report. Forest 

Service field employees submit MAR data for district accomplishments through Forest Supervisors to their 

regional offices, where data are reviewed and aggregated for the region before being submitted to the 

Washington Office in electronic and paper format. Some indicators are only reported through MAR while 

others are included in other reports submitted by the fields or regions. 

MAR data are submitted twice each year. In August, regions submit a 10-month report showing projected 

accomplishments. Then in November, regions submit a final report with actual accomplishments. The 

Washington Office usually receives final reports in mid to late November in both electronic and paper 

format. The electronic format consists of a spreadsheet with totals by region. These spreadsheets are 

fed into a database to generate national totals. 

MAR submissions go through several layers of review, starting at the forest supervisor level, then through 

regional managers, and finally Washington Office review. During our GPRA report preparation process, 

the Forest Service identified several weaknesses in the MAR report process. Current checks are not 

sufficient to ensure that MAR data are complete, accurate, and consistent. We found cases of missing, 

incomplete, or inaccurate data, and discovered we do not have sufficient checks in place to ensure that 

our performance data from MAR are complete, accurate, and consistent with other data sources. We 

took steps to correct these problems when we identified them and the data contained in this report 

represent what we believe to be the best currently available. However, we know that weaknesses exist in 

our current data collection and reporting system. Consequently, we will undertake a more thorough 

review during FY 2000 to identify the sources of these problems and develop strategies to correct them to 

ensure improvements in our performance measures in the near future. 

A separate issue involves definitions, both for MAR and other items as well. MAR measures have 

standard definitions for each data element. These definitions are distributed throughout the agency at all 

organizational levels with instructions that they are to be used by all data providers and managers to 

promote consistency. These definitions appear in Appendix C of the 1999 – 2000 GPRA Performance 

Plan. Questions on the definitions and measure may originate at all organizational levels, but ultimate 

responsibility for ensuring consistency in the interpretation of these definitions resides with the 

Washington office. Despite these efforts, data quality problems can still occur. Sources contributing to 

data quality problems include a lack of understanding of MAR item definitions by data providers and/or 

reviewers, how MAR items should be measured, and when accomplishments should be recorded. 

PMAS: State and Private Forestry tracks performance measures related to its programs using the 

Performance Measures Accountability System (PMAS). PMAS data represents accomplishments for 

Cooperative Forestry programs throughout the United States. At the start of the fiscal year, Cooperative 

Forestry Regional Directors are provided with performance measures that require accomplishment 

reporting. Those indicators are shared with State Foresters who have the responsibility of making sure 

the data are collected at the local level. Data undergo several layers of review, beginning at the local 

level, moving to the state, regional, and finally the national level. Accomplishment data are kept in local 

databases and then provided to the regional and national level in hardcopy form. Accomplishment 

reports are due in the Washington office by the second week of November. 

Currently, the Washington office is in the process of developing an electronic system that will facilitate 

data entry from the local level, allowing immediate access to the data at any time. The system will 

provide quarterly and mid-year status reporting and analysis, which should improve the Forest Service’s 

ability to monitor, evaluate, and manage these programs. 

INFRA: INFRA is a nationally deployed application providing integrated inventory of constructed 

features, roads, trails, and land units while automating several related business functions in financial 

management, acquisition management, and permits. The application will deliver reports on inventories, 

real property, and detailed reports on Forest Service deferred maintenance needs. It also contains 
9 

modules for billing, financial management, and other special uses. Separate modules of INFRA were 

released and installed on the IBM system during FY 1998 and 1999. Basic inventory data migrated from 

the earlier Data General system to the new IBM INFRA system as modules were developed and 

completed. INFRA 3.0, which contains data on several performance indicators, was released in July 

1999. Since then, field units have been aggressively collecting deferred maintenance data, general 

inventory information, as well as other data used to manage all types of assets. 

The Forest Service is now beginning the lengthy tasks associated with reviewing, validating, updating, 

and adding to existing information in INFRA. In some cases, field units have not fully populated some 

parts of INFRA. Field units have not yet entered certain data into the database, making it difficult or 

impossible to report some non-MAR items at this time. We expect over the next 1-2 years, data in INFRA 

will become more complete as field units enter specific information into the system. Management will 

provide additional guidance and impetus within targeted program areas in order for the Forest Service to 

provide better information about these various assets. 

Further INFRA development and enhancements are ongoing with additional modules scheduled for 

implementation in FY 2000 and beyond. These new portions of the application will allow for expanded 

upward reporting of specific program data as well as providing ties to other systems such as the national 

reservation system and providing the field with business and inventory tools. Business function 

enhancements include interface with the Forest Service new financial information and accounting system 

for all real property transactions and permit billing, expanded GIS interface, and new and improved 

reporting capabilities via standard reports and through ad hoc Microsoft tools. 

Data Validation and Quality Review: On-site reviews of organizational units and resource programs are 

the primary means of monitoring progress in meeting annual targets and moving towards strategic plan 

goals and objectives. A variety of reviews are conducted each fiscal year, with the level of detail 

depending on where it originates. For example, Washington Office (WO) reviews conducted by deputy 

chiefs concentrate on overall program operations while reviews initiated by forest supervisors tend to be 

much more detailed and can focus on a single activity within a program on a single ranger district. TES 

habitat improvement within the broader program area of Wildlife, Fish and Rare Plants is an example of 

an activity that might be reviewed at the forest supervisor level. Activity reviews can be initiated at all 

levels of the organization and are the most common because they examine the detailed operations that 

use personnel, capital, and information. 

The Forest Service reviewed data in this report by checking it against other sources and having program 

leaders in the Washington office review data for possible errors. As part of this review, several errors 

were identified and corrected. Data displayed in this report represent the best currently available given 

the limited time for us to conduct this review. More importantly, we identified several opportunities to 

improve data collection and reporting procedures that should improve the quality and timeliness of data 

while reducing data collection burdens in the future. Some of these include using web-based data entry 

at the field level and developing a central warehouse for performance measurement data. 
10 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.1: Healthy, biologically diverse and resilient aquatic ecosystems restored and protected to 

maintain a variety of ecological conditions and benefits. 

Key Performance Goals

Improve and protect wetland, riparian, and aquatic functions, processes and associated values by 

restoring impaired soil and water conditions and improving inland and anadromous fish habitat in 

unsatisfactory condition

Streams and lakes restored or enhanced for fish habitat: inland stream miles 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,301 

1,164 

Streams and lakes restored or enhanced for fish habitat: anadromous stream miles 

Target: 

Actual: 

536 

715 

Streams and lakes restored or enhanced for fish habitat: inland lake acres 

Target: 

Actual: 

7,930 

11,362 

Streams and lakes restored or enhanced for fish habitat: anadromous lake acres 

Target: 

Actual: 

5,161 

4,939 

Soil and water resource improvements – lands restored or enhanced (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

20,000 

35,562 

Road decommissioning and stabilization (miles) 

Target: 

Actual: 

3,000 

2,907 

Abandoned Mine Land (AML) watershed initiative activities (non-CERCLA, also see Objective 1.4) 

Target: 

Actual: 

4 

2 

Administer 60 percent of all energy and nonenergy mining operations to standard

Number of bonded nonenergy/energy operations administered to standards 

Target: 

Actual: 

7,700 

7,223 

Percent of bonded nonenergy/energy operations administered to standards 

Target: 

Actual: 

60% 

79% 

Trend Data 

Fish habitat restored/enhanced:

stream miles

0

500

1,000

1,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Inland actual

Inland target

Anadromous

actual

Anadromous

target

Fish habitat restored/enhanced

lake acres

0

2,500

5,000

7,500

10,000

12,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Inland actual

Inland target

Anadromous

actual

Anadromous

target
11 

Road decommissioning: miles of road

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Fish habitat restored or enhanced 

Stream miles, inland fish 864 1,121 950 911 1,164 1,301 1,275 1,405 

Stream miles, anadromous fish 531 631 900 689 715 536 545 605

Total stream miles 1,395 1,752 1,850 1,600 1,879 1,837 1,820 2,010 

 

Lake acres, inland fish 7,700 6,500 6,631 8,452 11,362 7,930 8,010 8,800 

Lake acres, anadromous fish 5,000 1,300 3,713 1,086 4,939 5,161 5,675 5,630

Total lake acres 12,700 7,800 10,344 9,538 16,301 13,091 13,685 14,430 

 

Road decommissioning, miles 2,126 1,440 1,787 2,099 2,907 3,000 2,500 2,500 

1999 Data: Twelve measures were reported under objective 1.1 in the 1999 Revised Final Performance 

Plan. Nine measures are reported here, with the other three measures reported under objective 1.2. All 

indicators but one use data from the Forest Service Management Attainment Reporting (MAR) system. 

The indicator for abandoned mine land watershed initiative activities is tracked by the Watershed and Air 

program staff. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service continues its work establishing baseline data to identify needs, 

including lands and fish habitat needing treatment. Although we do not have reliable baseline data to 

make a general statement whether we achieved the performance goals specified in the 1999 

Performance Plan, we can compare our accomplishments to targets for performance indicators contained 

in the Plan. The Forest Service met or exceeded targets set for four of the nine indicators reported here. 

• In two cases where reported accomplishment fell below the target, the shortfall in one indicator was 

more than offset by over-accomplishment in a related indicator. As the table above shows, the 

shortfall in stream miles for inland fish habitat was more than offset by anadromous fish habitat 

stream miles while the shortfall in lake acres of anadromous fish habitat was more than offset by 

inland fish habitat lake acres. 

• The number of bonded nonenergy and total energy operations administered to standard was below 

the target, but the percent administered to standard exceeded the target because the total number of 

operations was below the level anticipated when the target was set. In 1999, 7,399 out of 9,189 

operations were administered to standard. This indicator reflects whether Forest Service 

administered operations to comply with rules and regulations by conducting inspections to standard; it 

does not necessarily mean operators complied with environmental laws and regulations, however. 

• Road decommissioning was below target by less than 100 miles, or 3 percent. 

Program Evaluations: A March 1998 OIG audit titled Forest Service Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat 

Management identified two issues that could affect management of wildlife and fish habitat restoration 

efforts. The first is vacancies in leadership positions, and the second is insufficient management reviews 

of field operations. The audit remains open. 
12 

An OIG audit titled Management of Hazardous Waste at Active and Abandoned Mines was initiated in FY 

1998 and closed in FY 1999. The Forest Service implemented various recommendations to improve 

inspections efforts. These efforts could prevent or identify potential hazardous waste problems earlier, 

reducing costs while preventing environmental damage. Audit recommendations have been completed. 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.2: Ecological integrity of forested ecosystems restored or protected to maintain biological 

and physical components, functions, and interrelationships, and the capability for selfrenewal. 

Key Performance Goals

Restore forested lands identified as needing restoration, and use a variety of treatments to maintain, 

improve, and restore forested lands to ensure ecological integrity

Lands restored by reforestation (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

269,443 

267,013 

Treatment of harvest related woody fuels – brush disposal (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

107,200 

108,896 

Land ownership consolidated through acquisition and exchange to facilitate restoration and protection 

(acres) * 

Target: 

Actual: 

114,300 

488,835 

Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or enhanced (acres) * 

Target: 

Actual: 

185,115 

184,527 

Forestlands maintained or enhanced by stand improvement (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

218,576 

262,786 

Hazardous fuels reduction (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,379,900 

1,412,281 

Encourage restoration efforts on non-industrial private forest (NIPF) lands through Stewardship 

Management Plans, Stewardship Practices, and watershed restoration activities 

NIPF Stewardship Management Plans 

Target: 

Actual: 

19,500 

17,085 

NIPF lands under approved Stewardship Management Plans (acres) * 

Target: 

Actual: 

2,470,000 

1,866,000 

Multi-resource practices implemented on NIPF lands (acres) * 

Target: 

Actual: 

0 

0 

 

* These measures contribute to multiple objectives. In the 1999 Revised Final Performance Plan, these measures were divided 

among several objectives by taking a percentage of each measure and applying it to the various objectives. While these measures 

continue to contribute to multiple objectives, the targets and accomplishments have been combined and are reported here because

in each case the highest percent was assigned to objective 1.2. The measures along with the multiple objectives and percent of

target assigned to each objective is as follows: 

• Land ownership consolidation: 30% to objective 1.1, 40% to objective 1.2, and 30% to objective 1.3 

• Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or enhanced: 75% to objective 1.2, 25% to objective 1.3 

• NIPF lands under approved Stewardship Management Plans: 5% to objective 1.1, 60% to objective 1.2, 5% to objective 2.1, 

and 30% to objective 2.5 

• Multi-resource practices implemented on NIPF lands: 5% to objective 1.1, 50% to objective 1.2, 5% to objective 2.1, and 40% 

to objective 2.5 
13 

Legacy Project Acquisition (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

9,000 

19,281 

Legacy Project Acquisition (projects) 

Target: 

Actual: 

18 

13 

Statewide assessment of needs (states) 

Target: 

Actual: 

3 

2 

Value of FEPP equipment loaned to States (million dollars) 

Target: 

Actual: 

$89.2 

$133.0 

Forest health surveys and evaluations, Federal and Cooperative lands (million acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

772 

788 

Trend Data 

Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or enhanced: 

thousand acres

0

100

200

300

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

NIPF lands under approved management plans: 

thousand acres

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Hazardous fuel reduction: thousand acres

0

250

500

750

1,000

1,250

1,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Multi-resource practices on NIPF land:

thousand acres

0

250

500

750

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Forest health surveys & evaluations:

million acres

0

250

500

750

1,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target
14 

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or 

enhanced (1000 acres) 108 105 206 167 185 

 

185 175 273 

Hazardous Fuel Reduction (1000 acres) 570 617 1,098 1,489 1,412 1,380 1,320 1,345 

Forest health surveys & evaluations 

(million acres) 657 661 772 788 788 

 

772 788 788 

NIPF lands under approved management 

plans (1000 acres) 2,339 2,084 2,144 1,931 1,866 

 

2,470 1,905 1,773 

Multi-resource practices on NIPF lands 

(1000 acres) 538 491 215 250 0 

 

0 0 53 

1999 Data: Fourteen performance indicators were reported under objective 1.2 in the 1999 Revised Final 

Performance Plan. The first six performance indicators listed above use data from the Forest Service 

MAR system: 

Lands restored by reforestation (acres) 

Treatment of harvest related woody fuels – brush disposal (acres) 

Fragmented land ownership consolidation through acquisition and exchange to facilitate 

restoration and protection (acres) 

Terrestrial wildlife habitat restored or enhanced (acres) 

Forestlands maintained or enhanced by stand improvement (acres) 

Hazardous fuels reduction (acres) 

The next six indicators use data from State and Private Forest PMAS: 

NIPF Stewardship Management Plans (number of plans) 

Non-industrial Private Forest (NIPF) lands under approved Stewardship Management Plans 

(acres) 

Multi-resource practices implemented on NIPF lands (acres) 

Legacy Project Acquisition (acres) 

Legacy Project Acquisition (number of projects) 

Statewide assessment of needs (number of states) 

The last two measures – forest health surveys and evaluations on federal and cooperative lands, and 

value of fire equipment loaned to states – are tracked by State and Private Forestry staff separate from 

MAR and PMAS. 

Two of the MAR indicators – lands restored by reforestation and forestlands maintained or enhanced by 

stand improvement – are also tabulated in an automated timber stand record-keeping system maintained 

in each region. At the end of the year, stand records are aggregated and reported upward to develop 

national totals. These totals are used to audit the MAR reports and make corrections where necessary. 

The figures reported here represent the final audited numbers for these indicators. 

Analysis of Results: Current efforts to inventory and survey Federal and non-Federal forestland will 

continue in FY 2000. Although we do not have reliable baseline data to make a general statement 

whether we achieved the performance goals specified in the 1999 Performance Plan, we can compare 

our accomplishments to targets for performance indicators contained in the Plan. The Forest Service met 

or exceeded seven performance indicator targets and fell short on seven. The targets missed include the 

following: 

• Targets set for two indicators – lands restored by reforestation and terrestrial wildlife habitat restored 

or enhanced – were missed by less than 1%. 

• Several factors contributed to the Stewardship Management Plan target shortfalls. Some states 

shifted money away from plans into other activities allowed under this program, such as nursery 

improvement activities and general education and outreach efforts. Planning cost increases also 

affected acres covered. Finally, some states may have underreported acres by not including acres in 

category 1 watersheds also covered by Clean Water Action Plan reporting requirements. 
15 

• Although the Forest Service did fewer legacy project acquisitions (13 instead of 18), it exceeded the 

target for acres acquired by 10,281 or 114%. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Stewardship targets have been adjusted to reflect FY 2000 

appropriations and FY 2001 budget requests. Forest health surveys and evaluation targets have been 

adjusted to reflect past year accomplishments. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: See above. 

Program Evaluations: The USDA OIG has conducted several audits on land exchanges and 

acquisitions. One of these audits completed in FY 1999 covered the Tahoe basin. The Forest Service 

has not yet completed analysis and plans to implement recommendations from these audits. 

Furthermore, GAO has initiated a national review of the land acquisition and exchange program. 

In August 1998, the USDA OIG released an audit of the Stewardship Incentive Program identifying cases 

where program implementation did not follow policies already in place. The Forest Service adopted 

several recommendations to remedy this. This audit is closed. 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.3: Healthy, diverse and resilient rangeland ecosystems restored and protected to maintain 

robust riparian systems, a variety of ecological conditions and benefits, and biodiversity. 

Key Performance Goals

Aggressively treat noxious weed infestations that pose a threat to rangeland health

Noxious weeds treated (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

51,410 

87,000 

Improve rangelands through nonstructural improvements such as seeding, fertilizing, and liming

Nonstructural range improvements completed (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

29,930 

28,123 

Restore NFS lands identified as needing work to improve rangelands to a condition that supports native 

and desirable non-native species as defined by land and resource management plan standards

Rangelands monitored for progress toward desired condition in Allotment Management Plans (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

4,384,950 

6,582,982 

Trend Data

Noxious weeds treated: acres

0

25,000

50,000

75,000

100,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Nonstructural range improvements: acres

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Noxious weeds treated: acres 29,949 36,101 72,357 75,138 87,000 51,410 56,000 85,000 

Nonstructural range improvements: acres 27,002 41,699 36,856 23,817 28,123 29,930 32,000 28,690 
16 

1999 Data: Three performance indicators for this objective use data from the Forest Service 

Management Attainment Reporting (MAR) system. 

Analysis of Results: Current Forest Service efforts to work on rangeland inventory and survey will help 

establish the necessary baseline data for this objective. Although we do not have reliable baseline data 

to make a general statement whether we achieved the performance goals specified in the 1999 

Performance Plan, we can compare our accomplishments to targets for rangeland performance indicators 

contained in the 1999 Revised Final Performance Plan. The Forest Service significantly exceeded 

targets for two of the three performance indicators under this objective, while missing the target for 

nonstructural range improvements by 6 percent. The work performed for rangeland non-structural 

improvements includes the use of controlled burns. Weather and site conditions influence the 

accomplishment of this target. Variations due to external factors cannot be planned in advance. 

In addition to the accomplishments reported for noxious weed treatment using appropriated funds, an 

additional 9,780 acres were treated through cooperative efforts from state and local governments. 

Program Evaluations: None 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.4: Healthy, diverse and resilient aquatic and terrestrial resources restored and protected 

through hazardous substances sites response. 

Key Performance Goals

Restore and protect aquatic and terrestrial resources through hazardous substance site responses under 

the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)

Hazardous substance sites characterized 

Target: 

Actual: 

54 

21 

Hazardous substance site cleanups completed 

Target: 

Actual: 

17 

29 

Watershed or major abandoned mine land (AML) site cleanup actions initiated under CERCLA 

Target: 

Actual: 

3 

15 

1999 Data: Data for these three performance indicators are collected and monitored by Forest Service 

Engineering staff. 

Hazardous substance sites characterized are sites where a determination is made of: physical, chemical, 

and biological conditions; pertinent environmental and ecological parameters; contaminant identification; 

potential pathways for receptor exposure or environmental impact; natural resource damage; restoration 

actions; potential responsible parties and trustees; and, cost associated with these activities including 

potentially injured resource costs. Environmental management staff maintains these data. 

Hazardous substance site cleanups completed is the completion of planned and systematic restoration 

activities to include: reduction of relative risk; having remedies in place; mitigation of natural resource 

damages; and, restoration of the damaged natural resources to an ecological functioning system. 

Environmental management staff maintains these data. 

Watershed or major abandoned mine land site cleanup actions initiated under CERCLA show the number 

of actions under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act 

(CERCLA). The Forest Service is responsible for overseeing all nonemergency investigations and 
17 

cleanups of hazardous sites on NFS lands. Hazardous sites under CERCLA include abandoned landfills 

and mines, oil and gas exploration sites, and drug lab or other illegal dumps. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service exceeded its targets for two of the three indicators – hazardous 

substance site cleanups completed and watershed or major abandoned mine land site cleanup actions 

initiated under CERCLA – but fell short of its target for hazardous substance sites characterized due to 

inadequate levels of qualified staff to conduct this work. 

Program Evaluations: A GAO report titled Superfund: Progress Made by EPA and Other Federal 

Agencies to Resolve Program Management Issues reviewed interagency efforts to implement 

environmental cleanups on Forest Service lands. As a result of this review, the Departments of 

Agriculture, Defense, and other agencies entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to improve 

coordination among participating agencies. This audit has been closed. 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.5: Populations of threatened endangered, and sensitive (TE&S) species are conserved 

through recovery and management efforts. 

Key Performance Goals

Work with regulatory agencies and others to conserve species listed as threatened or endangered, or 

identified as sensitive

Terrestrial TE&S habitat restored or enhanced (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

113,547 

82,247 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or enhanced: stream miles 

Target: 

Actual: 

179 

315 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or enhanced: lake acres 

Target: 

Actual: 

93 

64 

10 percent of the approximately 2,100 identified sensitive species will have a conservation agreement 

and/or strategy completed to guide resource management efforts

Conservation agreements and strategies (number of sensitive aquatic and terrestrial species) 

Target: 

Actual: 

204 

TBD 

Fully implement approved recovery plans for threatened and endangered species

Approved and implemented recovery plans (number of listed aquatic and terrestrial species) 

Target: 

Actual: 

65 

TBD 

Trend Data 

Terrestrial TE&S habitat restored or enhanced: 

land acres

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or enhanced: 

stream miles

0

100

200

300

400

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target
18 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or enhanced: lake 

acres

0

100

200

300

400

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Conservation agreements: number of sensitive 

species

0

50

100

150

200

250

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Recovery plans: number of listed species

0

50

100

150

200

250

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Terrestrial TE&S habitat restored or 

enhanced: land acres 75,700 53,900 122,280 201,966 82,247 

 

113,547 107,000 143,000 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or 

enhanced: stream miles 61 130 161 243 315 

 

179 215 275 

Aquatic TE&S habitat restored or 

enhanced: lake acres 309 177 118 134 64 

 

93 80 110 

Conservation agreements: number of 

species NA NA 70 100 TBD 

 

204 235 219 

Recovery plans: number of listed 

species NA NA 182 200 TBD 

 

65 72 78 

1999 Data: The first three performance indicators under this objective are from MAR. 

The other two indicators – conservation agreements and number of listed species covered by recovery 

plans – use data from the Wildlife, Fish, and Rare Plants (WFRP) database. At the end of each fiscal 

year, field employees submit program data and project narratives for items tracked in the WFRP database 

to regional office program leaders for these programs. The data are reviewed and entered into an oracle 

database. The data is then retrieved from each regional database and merged into a national database 

at the Washington Office. A final validation process is used at the WO before the data is used to respond 

to Congress, administration, and partners. Standard definitions for each data element are available to all 

field employees via the National WFRP Website. These definitions are provided to ensure consistency 

across organizational levels. FY 1999 data for these two measures were not available in time for this 

report, but should be available in Spring 2000. 

Analysis of Results: Although many targets were exceeded and many were not attained, the Forest 

Service is unable to make a general statement whether performance goals were met. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: In FY2000, the WFRP database will be redesigned into a web 

application. 

Program Evaluations: None. 
19 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.6: Better ecosystem management decisions based on the best available scientific and 

management information. 

Key Performance Goals

Provide forest-level integrated inventory on a 10-year cycle and assessments at several scales of 

resources on and affecting NFS lands to support formulation of policy, programs, and both forest-level 

and project decision-making

Ecological assessments completed (number): Ecoregion (Domain/Division/Province) Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

2 

2 

Ecological assessments completed (number): Eco-subregion (Section/River Basin/Sub-basin) Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

17 

19 

Ecological assessments completed (number): Landscape/Watershed Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

113 

169 

Terrestrial Ecologic Unit Inventories (thousand acres): Eco-subregion (Section/Subsection) Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,395 

18,669 

Terrestrial Ecologic Unit Inventories (thousand acres): Landscape Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

5,784 

17,276 

Terrestrial Ecologic Unit Inventories (thousand acres): Land Unit Scale 

Target: 

Actual: 

15,186 

7,874 

Aquatic Ecologic Unit Inventories: Riverine Valley Segment (miles) 

Target: 

Actual: 

36,756 

12,149 

Aquatic Ecologic Unit Inventories: Riverine Stream Reach/Channel Unit (miles) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,954 

1,646 

Aquatic Ecologic Unit Inventories: Lacustrine Lake Type Scale (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

36,829 

7,074 

Aquatic Ecologic Unit Inventories: Lacustrine Lake Zone/Site Scale (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

782 

20,113 

Biological Inventories (thousand acres): Forest Resource Inventories 

Target: 

Actual: 

36,378 

22,536 

Biological Inventories (thousand acres): Rangeland Resource Inventory 

Target: 

Actual: 

4,789 

2,944 

Biological Inventories (thousand acres): Wildlife Habitat Inventory 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,828 

2,905 

Biological Inventories (thousand acres): TE&S Species Habitat Inventory 

Target: 

Actual: 

2,309 

4,440 

Human Dimensions Heritage Inventory (thousand acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

849 

1,571 
20 

Monitor and evaluate forest and rangeland conditions relative to desired resource conditions consistent 

with the Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management

Air Quality Related Values Inventoried/Monitored (AQRVs) 

Target: 

Actual: 

521 

998 

Develop and provide to managers scientific and technical information needed to manage and sustain the 

forest and rangelands of the Nation

Scientific papers (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,192 

1,050 

Customer satisfaction survey with research information 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

1999 Data: The FY 1999 Performance Plan included 18 performance measures. The first sixteen, 

shown above, use data from the Forest Service Management Attainment Reporting (MAR) system. The 

indicator for scientific papers uses data from the Research Budget Attainment Information System 

(RBAIS). The last indicator is from customer satisfaction surveys to be conducted every three years of 

special permit users. This survey was not scheduled for FY 1999, so data are not available for this 

indicator. 

The number of scientific papers comes from the Research Budget Attainment Information System 

(RBAIS) maintained by Forest Service Research and Development. RBAIS tracks funding and 

attainment at the Research Work Unit (RWU) level. At the beginning of the year, Research and 

Development funding is allocated to Research Stations based on Congressional direction. Each station 

then allocates funding to RWUs. Each RWU submits data on attainment to the Research Station budget 

coordinator. The data are reviewed by Station Assistant Directors and then forwarded to the National 

Budget Coordinator and the Research and Development Staffs in the Washington office. The Research 

Staffs review the data, prioritize accomplishments, and provide input to the Budget Coordinator on the 

annual RBAIS Report. The Research and Development Budget Coordinator organizes the data into a 

final report that is incorporated into the USDA Forest Service annual report. Data quality problems occur 

infrequently, and when they do, they are centered on revisions made to RBAIS. The RBAIS measure for 

scientific papers includes books, papers in series, journal articles, dissertations and theses, and other 

similar peer-reviewed accomplishments that are primarily related to ecosystem sustainability. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service met or exceeded the target for 10 of the Inventory and 

Monitoring measures and failed to meet targets set for 7 measures. In most cases, targets were missed 

due to mid-year changes in priorities, which shifted the types or scale of inventory. Overall, the combined 

target for acres inventoried was less than 1% below the target. 

Among the Terrestrial Ecological Unit Inventories, acres inventoried were shifted among Eco-subregion, 

Landscape, and Land Unit scale. In some regions, these changes supported Land and Resource 

Management Plan revisions and watershed assessments by preparing basic inventories and completing 

core GIS coverage. In addition, additional acres were inventoried through cooperative efforts with other 

agencies and tribes. 

The Forest Service did not meet its target for number of scientific papers in FY 1999. Several factors 

contributed to this shortfall, including the long-term nature of scientific research, the nature of the process 

of publishing research results, and the net loss of scientists in the R&D organization all contribute to this 

shortfall. Research is a long-term process, with results submitted for publication late in the study cycle. 

Predicting when results will be published is difficult, causing publication output to vary significantly across 

years due to journal publication cycles, the length of the peer review process, the workload of station and 

journal editors, and the actual progress of field studies. Consequently, this shortfall is well within the 

uncertainty inherent in making such estimates in advance. 
21 

Description of Actions and Schedules: The Forest Service will be revising the definitions of various 

inventory indicators. For further detail, see the 2000 Revised Final/2001 Final Performance Plan. 

Program Evaluations: Several USDA OIG and GAO audits and evaluations are currently being 

conducted to review inventory and land management planning efforts. In May 1999, GAO issued a report 

titled Ecosystem Planning – Northwest Forest and Interior Columbia River Basin Plans Demonstrate 

Improvements in Land Use Planning. This report recommended, among other things, paying more 

attention to ecological and socioeconomic trade-offs and providing land managers with clear direction for 

implementation combined with performance standards to improve accountability. The Forest Service has 

developed a response to these recommendations. 

Goal 1: Ensure Sustainable Ecosystems. 

Objective 1.7: Naturally functioning wilderness ecosystems where conditions are determined primarily 

by natural forces. 

Key Performance Goals

Ensure that Congressionally designated wilderness and their associated ecosystems are influenced 

primarily by natural processes and protected from human-caused degradation

Wilderness covered by approved fire plan (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

41,100 

NA 

Wilderness meeting Forest Plan standards for physical and social conditions (acres) 

Target: 

Actual: 

31,300 

NA 

1999 Data: These were new indicators, and no data were collected in FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: No data were available for analysis. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: During FY 2000, the Forest Service will explore options for 

collecting data on these measures. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: Indicators have not yet been developed to measure current fiscal 

year performance. 

Program Evaluations: None. 
22 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.1: Quality recreation experiences with minimal impacts to ecosystem stability and condition. 

Key Performance Goals

Offer outstanding opportunities for solitude and primitive or unconfined outdoor recreation while reducing 

the backlog of trail reconstruction

Trails reconstructed to standard: 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,537 

1,749 

Seasonal recreation capacity available: million persons at one time (PAOT) days 

Target: 

Actual: 

184.8 

203.4 

Annual wilderness & “Leave No Trace” education contacts 

Target: 

Actual: 

551,000 

NA 

Provide additional recreation opportunities, including special uses such as outfitter, guide, and 

concessionaire operations

Recreation special uses administered: number of permits 

Target: 

Actual: 

22,633 

23,792 

Measure and improve on customer satisfaction with recreation experiences on NFS land 

Customer satisfaction survey with recreation special use permit 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with facilities, access, & information 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with Forest Service visitor centers 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Trend Data

Trails reconstructed to standard: miles

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Seasonal recreation capacity:

million people at one time (PAOT) days

0

50

100

150

200

250

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target
23 

Recreation special uses administered: 

number of permits

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Trails reconstructed to standard - miles 2,139 1,696 1,674 2,150 1,749 1,537 1,749 1,750 

Seasonal recreation capacity - mil. PAOT 163 157 194 201 203 185 210 215 

Recreation special uses administered – 

number of permits 16,681 22,522 27,130 23,000 23,792 

 

22,633 23,700 23,500 

1999 Data: The FY 1999 Revised Final Performance Plan contained ten performance indicators for 

objective 2.1. Seven are reported here. Two changes account for this difference. First, the 1999 plan 

divided the indicator for trails reconstructed to standard between wilderness and non-wilderness. These 

are combined in this report. Second, two measures – NIPF lands under approved Stewardship 

Management Plans and multi-resource practices implemented on NIPF lands – contribute to and were 

split among multiple objectives in the plan. While they continue to contribute this objective, these 

measures are reported under objective 1.2 (see the footnote under objective 1.2 for more information). 

The first three indicators – trails reconstructed to standard, seasonal recreation capacity available, and 

recreation special uses administered to standard – use data from the Forest Service Managements 

Attainment Reporting (MAR) system. The Forest Service does not have a system to collect data on 

Wilderness and “Leave-No-Trace” education contacts, so no data will be available for this measure for 

1999. Also, no customer satisfaction surveys were scheduled for or conducted during FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service exceeded its targets for trails reconstructed to standard, 

seasonal recreation capacity, and recreation special uses administered to standard. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: During FY 2000, the Forest Service will examine whether it is 

feasible to collect data on Wilderness and “Leave-No-Trace education contacts or determine if another 

measure is more appropriate. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: FY 2000 targets were adjusted upward for seasonal recreation 

capacity. 

Program Evaluations: GAO has several ongoing audits on various recreation programs, but none 

appear directly related to these indicators. 
24 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.2: Protected and restored heritage resources that are available for the education and use of 

current and future generations. 

Key Performance Goals

Identify sites for future scientific evaluation, protection and interpretation efforts

Heritage Sites Evaluated (Sites) 

Target: 

Actual: 

4,527 

4,175 

Heritage Sites Interpreted (Sites) 

Target: 

Actual: 

796 

593 

Maintain visitor satisfaction through awareness and participation in inventory, site evaluation, restoration, 

and protection from vandalism

Heritage sites preserved/protected 

Target: 

Actual: 

3,354 

4,345 

Trend Data 

Heritage sites evaluated: number

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Heritage sites interpreted: number

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Heritage sites preserved/protected: number

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Heritage sites evaluated 2,817 2,219 4,945 4,175 4,527 3,800 2,000 

Heritage sites interpreted 492 793 538 593 796 550 400 

Heritage sites preserved/protected 2,394 2,968 6,795 4,345 3,354 3,200 2,000 

1999 Data: The three performance indicators for objective 2.2 use data from the Forest Service 

Management Attainment Reporting (MAR) system. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service fell short of its target for the number of heritage sites evaluated 

and interpreted, but exceeded its target for sites preserved or protected. 
25 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.3: Improved urban environments and enhanced community livability through healthy 

landscapes. 

Key Performance Goals

Increase assistance to eligible communities to increase local capacities to assess, expand, and improve 

urban environments

Participating communities (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

9,267 

11,101 

Technical assistance to communities (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

13,185 

11,020 

Training provided (million hours) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1.2 

3.8 

Volunteer assistance generated (million hours) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1.5 

1.2 

Trend Data 

Participating communities

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Participating communities 10,110 9,635 11,101 9,267 10,000 12,850 

1999 Data: The four performance indicators for objective 2.3 use data from the Forest Service 

Performance Measures Accountability System (PMAS). 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service had mixed results for this objective. Targets for participating 

communities and hours of training provided were exceeded, while technical assistance to communities 

and volunteer assistance generated was below targets set for these indicators. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: The FY 2001 target for participating communities has been 

raised. In FY2000 the Forest Service will be refining the method of measuring performance reporting for 

technical and volunteer assistance. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: Depending on the nature of changes in reporting methodology, 

FY2000 data for technical and volunteer assistance may not be comparable with prior year data. 

Program Evaluations: GAO has an ongoing evaluation examining the socio-economic impact of Forest 

Service programs on urban communities. A report has not yet been issued. 
26 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.4: Economically healthy and diversified rural communities operating under strategic plans 

for sustainable development. 

Key Performance Goals

Increase the number of assisted rural communities working under broad-based local strategic plans by 3 

percent, in striving to reach the Strategic Plan’s goal of 50 percent of all assisted communities operating 

under such plans by 2002

Communities working under broad-based strategic plans (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

850 

740 

Communities using locally-based measurement systems 

Target: 

Actual: 

355 

429 

Assistance to tribal and minority communities 

Target: 

Actual: 

190 

195 

Communities and volunteer fire departments assisted (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

2,391 

2,450 Preliminary estimate 

State foresters rate overall satisfaction with cooperative fire protection program 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Trend Data 

Communities working under broad-based local 

strategic plans

0

500

1,000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Communities working under broad-based local strategic plans 538 690 740 850 775 800 

1999 Data: The first three indicators for this objective use data from the Forest Service Performance 

Measures Accountability System (PMAS). The fourth indicator – Communities and volunteer fire 

departments assisted – use data from reports submitted by each state on the number of grants they 

made during the year. These data are submitted to the Forest Service in January of the following fiscal 

year. Complete data were not available in time for this report, but should be available by February. The 

estimate is a projection based on about 70% of the states reporting. The fifth measure – State Forester’s 

overall satisfaction with the Cooperative Fire Protection Program – depends on surveys conducted on a 

two to three year cycle. No survey was scheduled for or conducted in FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: Although the Forest Service increased the number of communities working under 

broad-based strategic plans, it did not achieve its target of 850 set for FY1999. The targets for the other 
27 

four indicators were exceeded, however. Rural communities use broad-based local strategic plans to 

develop strategies for achieving sustainable development through the Economic Action Programs. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: In FY 2000, the Forest Service will work with State Foresters to 

improve identification of communities that received technical and financial assistance through the 

cooperative fire program. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: If measurement definitions or data collections change in FY 2000, 

data for FY 2000 may not be comparable to prior year data. 

Program Evaluations: See objective 2.3. 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.5: A sustainable yield of forest products that contributes to meeting the Nation’s demands 

and to restoring, improving or maintaining forest ecosystem health.

Key Performance Goals

Provide a sustainable supply of forest products from NFS lands and encourage and support other 

landowners to do the same

Timber volume offered (million cubic feet) 

Target: 

Actual: 

701.0 

436.5 

Timber volume sold (million cubic feet) 

Target: 

Actual: 

701.0 

396.0 

Increased use of underutilized species (million cubic feet) 

Target: 

Actual: 

6.3 

6.3 

Customer satisfaction survey with timber sale and contract program 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Customer satisfaction survey with special forest product permit system 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

Trend Data 

Timber volume offered: million cubic feet

0

200

400

600

800

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Timber volume sold: million cubic feet

0

200

400

600

800

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Timber volume offered 535 749 762 646 437 701 699 608 

Timber volume sold 540 509 791 570 396 701 699 608 
28 

1999 Data: The FY 1999 Performance Plan included seven measures for this objective. Only five are 

reported here because NIPF lands under approved Stewardship Management Plans and multi-resource 

practices implemented on NIPF lands, although contributing to this objective, are reported under objective 

1.2. See the footnote under objective 1.2 for more information. 

Of the five measures shown in the table above, the first two – timber volume offered and timber volume 

sold – are reported through MAR. Data for increased use of underutilized species (million cubic feet) are 

from PMAS. The last two indicators use data from satisfaction surveys. No surveys were scheduled for 

FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service fell short of its targets on timber volume offered and timber 

volume sold. Several factors contributed to these shortfalls. A lack of sufficient water-based marking 

paint during the field season combined with appeals and wildlife consultation issues delayed sale 

preparation and offer. In addition, litigation affected the President’s plan for the Pacific Northwest targets 

by requiring additional survey protocols for Survey and Manage species. Finally, some no-bid sales 

contributed to the shortfall. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Funds have been designated for FY 2000 to develop a better 

mechanism for collecting data on use of underutilized species. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: The timber volume offered and volume sold shortfalls will not affect 

FY 2000 or beyond targets. In some cases, offer volume delayed or not bid on in FY 1999 will be offered 

for sale in FY 2000. 

Program Evaluations: The USDA OIG conducted audits on timber sale environmental analysis 

requirements. The Forest Service adopted several recommendations from this audit. GAO also issued a 

report in June 1999 titled Forest Service Priorities: Evolving Mission Favors Resource Protection over 

Production that addresses trends in timber sales. The audit remains open. 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.6: A sustainable supply of forage on suitable and capable lands for livestock and wildlife.

Key Performance Goals

Meet or move toward land and resource management plan objectives to support healthy native 

populations of wildlife, aquatic and TE&S species

Range structural improvements (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,198 

1,322 

Allotments administered to standard (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

4,389 

4,235 

Complete grazing allotments and implement NEPA decisions on schedule

Grazing allotments analyzed and NEPA decision signed (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

718 

464 

Customer satisfaction survey with grazing permit process 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 
29 

Trend Data 

Range structural improvements - number

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Graing allotments analyzed & NEPA decisions 

signed - number

0

250

500

750

1,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

Range structural improvements – number 1,603 2,145 1,718 1,370 1,322 1,198 1,100 1,091 

Grazing allotments analyzed and NEPA 

decisions signed – number NA 664 621 790 464 

 

718 690 559 

1999 Data: All indicators except for the customer satisfaction survey use MAR data. No surveys were 

scheduled or conducted for FY 1999, so data are not available for this indicator. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service does not have quantifiable goals in place for this objective. As 

a result, we are not able to say whether we met performance goals in FY 1999. However, targets were in 

place for three of the four measures. The Forest Service exceeded its target for the number of range 

structural improvements, but was below target for i) allotments administered to standard and ii) grazing 

allotments analyzed and NEPA decisions signed. The rangeland management resource area is 

responsible for a significant number of infrastructure features for property and deferred maintenance on 

National Forest Service land. In FY 1999, rangeland specialists devoted their time to fiscal inventory, 

deferred maintenance, and the INFRA program. These were priority activities. Accomplishments were 

less than originally planned for those two indicators because of a shift in workload priorities to deferred 

maintenance inventories. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Deferred maintenance efforts will continue in FY 2000 and 

probably FY 2001. Fiscal inventory efforts should be completed in FY 2000. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: With continued emphasis on deferred maintenance and fiscal 

inventories, the Forest Service may not be able to achieve target levels for rangeland performance 

indicators. 

Program Evaluations: None. 
30 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.7: Available mineral resources that comply with environmental and health standards.

Key Performance Goals

Complete NEPA analyses in a timely manner, monitor operations, and ensure that mineral activities are 

done in an ecologically acceptable manner

Bonded and non-bonded non-energy operations processed (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

10,905 

11,976 

Energy operations processed (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

375 

271 

Customer satisfaction with oil and gas leasing, drilling, and production permit process 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

1999 Data: All indicators except for the customer satisfaction survey use MAR data. No surveys were 

scheduled or conducted for FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service exceeded its target for non-energy operations processed but 

fell short of target for energy operations processed. All energy operations involve leased operations, and 

leasing declined in FY 1999. 

Program Evaluations: None. 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.8: Better resource management decisions based on the best available scientific and 

management information.

Key Performance Goals

Acquire, analyze, and interpret information needed to evaluate implementation of land and resource 

management plans

Land and resource management plan monitoring and evaluation (number of plans) 

Target: 

Actual: 

125 

94 

State of the region evaluation reports (number of reports) 

Target: 

Actual: 

9 

7 

Interpret monitoring results and collect and analyze information needed to develop new land and resource 

management plans or revisions

Land and resource management plan revisions, new plans initiated 

Target: 

Actual: 

14 

9 

Land and resource management plan revisions, new plans completed 

Target: 

Actual: 

2 

2 

Develop and provide to managers scientific and technical information needed to, manage and sustain the 

forest and rangelands of the Nation

Technical reports (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,526 

1,455 
31 

Inventory field plots (percent) 

Target: 

Actual: 

6% 

6% Preliminary estimate 

1999 Data: All indicators use MAR data except for the last two. The indicator for number of technical 

reports is tracked in the Research Budget Attainment Information System, and the indicator for inventory 

field plots re-measured uses estimated data from the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program. The 

FIA program provides information needed to assess the health and sustainability of the Nation’s forest. 

Data on the number and percent plots re-measured undergo a rigorous quality control and quality 

assurance procedure before being made available. Counts on plots are submitted in January, with a final 

analysis scheduled to be completed by February 15th. Actual data for the percent plots re-measured will 

be available then. In 1998, the Forest Service started issuing an Annual Business Report of the Forest 

Inventory and Analysis Program. See that publication for more details. Information on this program is 

also available over the Internet at www.srsfia.usfs.msstate.edu/wo/wofia.htm. 

Analysis of Results: Although funding and priorities for completion of Monitoring and Evaluation reports 

were a priority in FY 1999, reports were not issued for a total of 30 Forests in Regions, 1,3,4,5,6,8 and 9, 

and State of the Region reports were not issued for Regions 5 and 10. In general, the reason for failing to 

issue reports was due to funding being diverted for emergency or higher priority work. Plans are in place 

to complete missing reports during FY 2000. 

Notices of Intent for Land and Resource Management Plans in Regions 2, 8,and 9 were not filed in order 

to prepare a more comprehensive proposal for public review. Additional pre-revision tasks were 

undertaken which should reduce the overall time involved in revision and provide the public with a more 

complete proposal. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: All Forests and Regions will be required to issue reports in FY 

2000 (covering the FY 1999 period). Those forests and regions that did not issue reports in FY 1999 

(covering the FY 1998 period) will be required to issue those reports in FY 2000 as well. Monthly 

conference calls and a national meeting with Regional Monitoring and Evaluation coordinators will be 

used to stress compliance with these targets. In addition, the relationship of State of the Region reports 

to the GPRA Strategic Plan and Annual Performance Plan are being strengthened which should improve 

performance in FY 2000. 

Targets for the five revisions not initiated in FY 1999 will be assigned in FY 2000. Notice of Intent have 

already been filed in early FY 2000 or will be filed shortly. 

Program Evaluations: None. 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.9: Provide a Safe Environment for the Public and Employees on National Forest System 

Lands.

Key Performance Goals

Specific performance measures are not available for law enforcement at this time. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Several indicators of activity in law enforcement tracked on a 

year-end basis are not appropriate for distribution to the field as targets. The number of violation notices 

or “tickets” issued and the number of investigations are two such indicators. Many such measures are 

complex, and require careful interpretation. Efforts at developing accurate and meaningful performance 

indicators for law enforcement are ongoing at this time. Some of these will be included in the FY 2000 

Revised Final/2001 Final Performance Plan. 
32 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.10: Provide for Special Uses and Protect National Forest System Land Title.

Key Performance Goals

Survey, mark and maintain 10 percent of agency boundary lines to standard

New boundary marked to standard (miles) 

Target: 

Actual: 

1,050 

1,028 

Rights-of-way acquired (cases) 

Target: 

Actual: 

342 

332 

Be responsive to applications for new authorizations

Special use permits processed (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

4,458 

5,984 

Administer special use authorizations to meet public health and safety standards

Special use permits administered to standard (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

19,457 

18,726 

Hydropower license renewals completed (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

90 

TBD 

Provide geometronics data for planning and management

Revised primary base series quads maintained to standard (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

500 

697 

Revised secondary base series quads maintained to standard (number) 

Target: 

Actual: 

20 

26 

Trend Data 

New boundary lines marked to standard: miles

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Rights-of-way: cases

0

250

500

750

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target
33 

Special use permits processed: number

0

2,500

5,000

7,500

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Special use permits administered to standard

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Actual Target

Actual Targets 

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1999 2000 2001 

New boundary line marked to standard 1,837 1,545 1,119 1,100 1,028 1,050 1,050 1,090 

Rights-of-way cases 581 513 484 277 332 342 350 350 

Special use permits processed 4,526 4,575 5,033 5,421 5,984 4,458 TBD TBD 

Special use permits administered to 

standard 15,447 24,137 20,996 14,926 18,726 

 

19,457 6,470 6,500 

1999 Data: The first four indicators for this objective use data from MAR, while the last three are tracked 

and monitored by National Forest System program staff. 

Data are not available for hydropower license renewals completed. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service did not meet its performance goal for boundary marked to 

standard and rights-of-way acquired. It also fell short of the target set for special use authorizations. It 

exceeded targets for special use permits and geometric data; therefore it achieved these goals. 

Until recently, the Forest Service has not had an adequate system of tracking the administration of 

special use permits. This has led to difficulty in having accurate, verifiable data that can be used to 

establish targets. Furthermore, there is difficulty in interpreting current definitions of what “administered to 

standard” means. As a result, special uses program managers and staffs have not given the assignment 

of these targets and the reporting of accomplishments the attention they deserve. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: With the establishment and implementation of the new “special 

uses data base” (SUDS) the agency will have the database needed to better track the administration of 

special use authorizations. Doing so will improve the way of tracking and setting targets for 

accomplishments. Establishing accountability standards and budgetary consequences associated with 

the accomplishment of these targets will result in units and managers giving them more attention and 

emphasis. Finally, the agency’s planned implementation of cost recovery regulations will provide for 

more resources to administer a greater number of authorizations to standard than is currently being 

accomplished using a limited amount of appropriated funds. These changes should result in more 

reliable data; however, as a result of these changes, data for FY 2000 and beyond will not be comparable 

with data for earlier years. 

The goal and targets for hydropower license renewals is currently under review. 

Program Evaluations: GAO currently has an ongoing audit on the hydropower program. Also see 

objective 1.2 on land exchanges. No report has been issued yet. 
34 

Goal 2: Provide Multiple Benefits for People within the Capabilities of Ecosystems. 

Objective 2.11: Provide for Safe Infrastructure and Access to National Forest System Lands.

Key Performance Goals

Maintain and restore existing infrastructure to protect capital investments where they provide safe, 

efficient and environmentally suitable support for agency activities and public use

System roads maintained to standard (percent of total) 

Target: 

Actual: 

18% 

26% 

Investments in existing roads (miles) 

Target: 

Actual: 

2,774 

3,558 

Bridges inspected as scheduled 

Target: 

Actual: 

90% 

NA 

Bridges constructed or maintained to improved sufficiency rating (points) 

Target: 

Actual: 

+3 

NA 

Compared to FY 1998 

Dams inspected as scheduled (percent) 

Target: 

Actual: 

95% 

NA 

Facilities reconstructed or replaced to meet current legal standards (projects completed) 

Target: 

Actual: 

32 

29 

Customer survey will measure user satisfaction with recreation related facilities and access 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

1999 Data: The first two indicators displayed above -- system roads maintained to standard and 

investments in existing roads – use MAR data. The next three indicators – bridges inspected as 

scheduled, bridges constructed or maintained to improved sufficiency rating (points), and dams inspected 

as scheduled – use data from the INFRA database. The Engineering program tracks the next indicator -- 

facilities reconstructed or replaced to meet current legal standards. The last indicator uses data from 

customer satisfaction surveys. No survey was scheduled for or conducted during FY 1999. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service exceeded targets set for the two indicators for road standards 

and investments. Data were not available for the bridge and dam indicators – see the discussion on the 

INFRA database on page 8. The Forest Service did not meet its target for number of facilities 

reconstructed or replaced to meet current legal standards. 

The current indicator for system roads maintained to standard does not validly capture road conditions 

due to differences in how road standards are interpreted. Consequently, a new indicator will be adopted 

beginning in FY 2000 that uses a condition rating index system. The new rating system should reduce 

subjective ambiguity in how roads are rated and therefore provide a more reliable indicator for the 

condition of national forest system roads. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Work to generate the necessary reports from the INFRA 

database should be completed during FY 2000. At that time, data for FY 1999 as well as FY 2000 should 

be available. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: Data on past and current year performance will become available as 

soon as the INFRA database is complete. At that time, targets and goals will be evaluated based on 

those data. 
35 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness. 

Goal 3, Ensuring Organizational Effectiveness differs from Goals 1 and 2 by articulating management 

initiatives rather than objectives. The primary difference between the two is that management initiatives 

are not generally related to differing program budget levels. In other words, increases or decreases in 

specific program funding levels may have little effect on the performance indicators for the management 

initiatives under Goal 3 Ensuring Organizational Effectiveness. Additionally, several performance 

indicators used with the management initiatives are qualitative, rather than quantitative. 

Management Initiative 3.1: An innovative, people-oriented work environment and workforce that is 

representative of society as a whole and that services all customers equally.

Key Performance Goals

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in the workforce (percent of total)

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

48.7% 

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in leadership positions (percent of positions GS-13 and 

above)

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

34.5% 

Opportunities for increased participation (number served)

Youth Conservation Corps 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

717 

Job Corps 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

 8,623 

Senior Community Service Employment Program 

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

5,221 

Implementation of USDA civil rights initiative (percent of related indicators)

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

78.4% 

Employee participation in CIP survey (percent of workforce)

Target: 

Actual: 

65% 

46% 

Trend Data 

 Target 

1999 Actual 2000 2001 

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in the workforce: % total 48.7% 48.9% TBD 

Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in leadership positions: 

% in positions GS-13 and above 34.5% 35.6% TBD 

Youth Conservation Corps: number served 717 650 700 

Job Corps: number served 8.623 8.800 8,850 

Senior Community Service Employment Program: number served 5,221 5,500 5,500 

Employee participation in CIP survey: % of workforce 46% NA TBD 

1999 Data: Data quality and reliability for the performance measures are expected to be high and there 

are no apparent data limitations, with the following observation. The first two indicators include persons 

with disabilities in the data pools. However, the number of persons with disabilities not already included 

in the data for either women or minorities cannot be differentiated in the source data, FOCUS reports 

HCTL2RNO parts I and II. Consequently, the percentage figures are thought to be slightly lower than the 

actual cases. 
36 

The first two performance indicators measure the agency’s efforts to fully implement multicultural 

awareness and management competencies within the organization, with particular emphasis on 

leadership positions. 

The next three indicators (numbers served under Youth Conservation Corps, Job Corps, and Senior 

Community Service Employment Program) are used to measure the Forest Service commitment to 

integrating the needs and values of Americans differing with respect to age distribution. 

The indicator for implementation of USDA civil rights initiative (% of total related indicators) arises from 

the 1997 USDA Civil Rights Action Team recommendations. The Team presented 92 recommendations 

to the Secretary of Agriculture to improve employee and customer relations and program delivery 

throughout the Department. Many of the recommendations are applicable to the Forest Service and work 

is ongoing to implement those recommendations. 

The final indicator under Management Initiative 3.1 involves the percentage of the total workforce 

participating in the Continuous Improvement Process (CIP) survey. The agency uses this process to 

measure employee satisfaction in areas including communication, human resource management, job 

satisfaction, organizational management, service and quality, and supervision. By establishing a baseline 

developed from the 1997 CIP survey, subsequent surveys identify changes in areas needing 

improvement. Ultimately, an improved work environment will increase employee productivity. The 

premise is that a more productive workforce will be more effective, efficient, and responsive. 

Analysis of Results: With only one of seven indicators having a target, the extent of quantifiable 

progress being made toward accomplishment of management initiative 3.1 cannot be determined. 

The percentage of minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in the workforce has remained stable 

compared with prior years. As of September 30, 1999, there were 13,741 minorities, women, and 

persons with disabilities in permanent positions out of a total 28,208 permanent positions in the agency. 

As of September 30, 1999, there were 1106 minorities, women, and persons with disabilities in leadership 

positions at grade GS-13 and above out of 3207 total agency employees in those permanent positions. 

The percentage of those employees in leadership positions in grades GS-13 and above has shown an 

increase from prior years. 

The number of persons served in the Youth Conservation Corps, Job Corps, and the Senior Community 

Service Employment Program has remained relatively stable during the past three years, although the 

latter two programs have experienced slight enrollment decreases from the prior year. 

Implementation of the USDA civil rights initiative has been ongoing since 1997. In October, 1997, there 

were 37 civil rights recommendations for which implementation was in progress within the Forest Service. 

As of September 30, 1999, 29 have been implemented, with progress continuing on the remaining 8 

recommendations. 

Only the last performance indicator had a target against which to measure the current year 

accomplishment. A total of 36,804 CIP surveys were distributed to agency employees, with 16,733 

surveys returned by the due date. The rate of employees participating in the continuous improvement 

process survey was 46% compared with a target of 65%. Participation rates in fiscal years 1997 and 

1998 were 58% and 65% respectively, both higher than the rate for fiscal year (FY) 1999. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: The reports used as the data source for the first and second 

performance indicators do not differentiate the number of employees with disabilities from other 

categories. More comprehensive reports would be required to improve the accuracy of the data 

presented for both measures where employees with disabilities are included in the percentages. 

The target for the employee participation in the continuous improvement process (CIP) survey was not 

met. The agency is reassessing the approach used in circulating surveys and encouraging greater 
37 

participation by focusing on providing more timely feedback and results to participants. Based on the 

findings from the FY 1999 CIP survey, a team of National Leadership Committee members will meet 

during the week of February 21, 2000, to design and develop the agency’s first National CIP Action Plan. 

The next scheduled CIP survey will be conducted in FY 2001. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: Performance levels accomplished in FY 1999 would not have an 

effect on planned performance levels in FY 2000. The availability of meaningful data, consistency of 

definitions, and utility for policy makers are factors that will determine which performance measures will 

be used for annual performance reporting or longer-term monitoring. 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness. 

Management Initiative 3.2 All customers receive better service.

Key Performance Goals

Offer to all customers, contractors, suppliers and vendors opportunity to conduct electronic financial 

transactions

Target: 

Actual: 

Emphasis on full implementation of IBM system. 

Electronic payments by agency available. 

Establish internal enterprise teams to improve management efficiency of National Forests in California

Target: 

Actual: 

Evaluation of initial efforts. 

Evaluations completed. 

Offer toll-free telephone, world-wide-web, and automated applications to all permittees and applicants of 

most frequently requested special use permits

Target: 

Actual: 

Emphasis on full implementation of IBM system. 

All but toll-free telephone access is available. 

Improve service to public land users by providing one-stop shopping for information, permits, and other 

frequently requested over the counter products and services at BLM and Forest Service facilities

Target: 

Actual: 

“Service first” plans completed for each BLM district and FS forest. 

“Service first” plans completed on a state-wide basis. 

Provide an integrated nationwide outdoor recreation information system that gives all Americans quick 

and easy access to the BLM, Park Service, and Forest Service, including recreation use permits and 

reservations

Target: 

Actual: 

Evaluate, revise, and improve system. 

Access to the system is available on the internet at the interactive web site featuring 

user improvements made in FY 1999. 

Customer satisfaction surveys completed (number)

Target: 

Actual: 

5 

5 

Follow-up analyses

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

24 

1999 Data: The quality and reliability of the data/information provided for the performance measures are 

expected to be high and there are no apparent data limitations. 

The first indicator under Management Initiative 3.2 is to offer all customers, contractors, suppliers and 

vendors the opportunity to conduct electronic financial transactions. In large part, this business practice 

entails electronic funds transfer by the Forest Service as payment for products and services received. 

Past agency payment practices primarily involved mailing paper checks that took longer, was more 

expensive, and less secure. Agency-wide use of the new IBM computer system is intended to further 

attainment of this indicator. In FY 1999, the IBM system became available agency-wide and electronic 

payment transactions were offered to all customers, contractors, suppliers, and vendors. 
38 

The second indicator involves establishing internal enterprise teams to improve management efficiency of 

National Forests in California and to evaluate the initial efforts. An evaluation of initial efforts was 

completed as planned in FY 1999. 

The third indicator measures how successful the Forest Service would be making available toll-free 

telephone access, a world-wide web page, and automated application forms to all permittees and 

applicants of the most frequently requested special-use permits. All but the toll-free telephone access 

was completed in FY 1999. A world wide web page was created and available for use, with electronic 

application forms available from the web page. The IBM system was fully implemented agency-wide as 

well. 

The fourth indicator would measure improvement in public service by instituting “one-stop shopping” 

opportunities to the public who need access to both the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the 

Forest Service. “Service First” plans are to be completed for each BLM District office and Forest 

Supervisor’s office. 

The fifth indicator is to evaluate, revise and improve a system to provide integrated, nationwide, outdoor 

recreation information. The intent is to provide all Americans quick and easy access to the BLM, Park 

Service, and Forest Service recreation use permits and reservations. As a result of these efforts, the web 

site www.recreation.gov was revised during FY 1999 to feature user improvements. 

The sixth indicator involves measuring customer satisfaction with the quality of service provided by the 

Forest Service. Customer service surveys are intended to measure levels of public satisfaction with a 

wide range of agency programs. Results of the surveys will allow the agency to better respond to 

opportunities for improvements. 

The last indicator under Management Initiative 3.2 entails follow-up analyses of customer satisfaction 

surveys. 

Analysis of Results: The Forest Service met its FY 1999 performance goal for this management 

initiative. The accomplishments described in the table above, when compared with their targets, indicate 

that progress is being made toward attainment of management initiative 3.2 that all customers receive 

better service. Six of the seven performance measures had planned targets that were essentially 

accomplished. The seventh measure, follow-up analyses of customer satisfaction surveys, had no target 

although 24 follow-up analyses were reported for customer surveys conducted in prior years. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: No actions or schedules have been identified for measures 

within this management initiative. One item of the second performance measure, offering toll-free 

telephone access, was not accomplished due to projected high costs and will not be pursued in the 

future. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: Actual performance levels in FY 1999 are not expected to influence 

estimated levels of performance in FY 2000. 
39 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness. 

Management Initiative 3.3: Integrated information systems, data structures and information 

management processes in place to support the agency’s mission.

Key Performance Goals

IBM system users (percent of employees)

Target: 

Actual: 

100% 

100% 

Mission critical systems tested and found to be Y2K complaints

Target: 

Actual: 

100% 

100% 

1999 Data: Data/information is expected to be reliable and without apparent limitations. 

The first indicator for Management Initiative 3.3 measures agency efforts to have all employees using IBM 

equipment and systems. The new IBM system will provide not only the current administrative 

applications, but also a Geographic Information System (GIS) capability allowing greater and quicker 

manipulation of resource information crucial to decision making. 

The second indicator deals with the mission critical systems tested and found to be Y2K compliant to 

support the agency’s mission. 

Analysis of Results: The forest service met its FY 1999 performance goal for this management 

initiative. Accomplishment of both performance measures is significant in meeting the management 

initiative. The agency has transitioned to the IBM platform successfully, and has tested and found 

mission critical systems to be Y2K compliant. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: No actions or schedules are required as both measures have 

been met. This management initiative will require development of new indicators if continued in future 

performance measurement as part of both the annual Performance Plan and Report. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: No assessment has been made regarding actual performance levels 

in FY 1999 and whether there would be effects to estimated performance levels in FY 2000. 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness 

Management Initiative 3.4: A sound financial system which supports resource decisions with timely, 

accurate information and financial expertise

Key Performance Goals

FFIS implemented

Target: 

Actual: 

3 pilot units 

3 pilot units 

Real property inventory completed

Target: 

Actual: 

Yes 

 Partial 

Timber sales accounting system implemented

Target: 

Actual: 

Yes 

Yes 
40 

Financial management reports developed showing obligations direct/indirect costs and performance 

indicator costs

Target: 

Actual: 

Prototype completed 

Partial 

Unqualified audit opinion

Target: 

Actual: 

No 

Audit not yet completed. 

Audit items from the Secretary’s Management Report eliminated

Target: 

Actual: 

No 

Partial 

Delinquent debts referred to Treasury for offset and cross-servicing (percent)

Target: 

Actual: 

NA 

NA 

1999 Data: The quality and reliability of the data/information being reported are expected to be high. A 

data limitation prevents reporting the percentage of delinquent debts referred to the Treasury for offset 

and cross-servicing. 

The first indicator addresses continued implementation in three pilot units of the agency’s new Foundation 

Financial Information System (FFIS). The units involved include the Alaska Region, the Pacific Northwest 

Region, and the Pacific Northwest Research Station. 

The second indicator measures the status of completing required modules of the real property inventory. 

The third indicator focuses on implementation of the timber sale accounting system. 

The fourth indicator addresses the status of developing prototype financial management reports showing 

obligations, direct/indirect costs and performance indicator costs. 

The fifth indicator reflects obtaining an unqualified audit opinion for the agency’s FY 2000 financial audit 

report to be issued by March 2001. Inclusion of this indicator in the FY 1999 Performance Plan and in the 

Report was done with the understanding that the target would not be achieved this fiscal year. 

The sixth indicator focuses on eliminating Forest Service audit items from the Secretary’s Management 

Report. 

The seventh indicator is intended to measure the percentage of eligible delinquent debts owed to the 

Forest Service that were referred to the Treasury for offset and cross-servicing under provisions of the 

Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996. 

Analysis of Results: The first performance measure had a quantitative target that was achieved as the 

three pilot units continued implementation of the Foundation Financial Information System (FFIS) during 

FY 1999. Beginning October 1, 1999, the Forest Service implemented use of FFIS agency-wide. 

The second measure, completion of a real property inventory, was met for individual assets and was 

certified as accomplished. There is an ongoing effort to inventory newly identified property and pooled 

assets during FY 2000. 

The third measure, implementation of the timber sales accounting system, was met. 

The fourth measure entailed development of prototype financial management reports showing 

obligations, direct/indirect costs, and performance indicator costs. While reports showing obligations 

were available in FY 1999, reports on direct/indirect costs and performance indicator costs have only 
41 

become available in FY 2000. Reports are available only for some of the quantitative performance 

indicators. 

An unqualified audit opinion has not been received for the Forest Service financial statements, nor was 

one anticipated during FY 1999. Accomplishment of this fifth measure is contingent on an audit by the 

Office of Inspector General that has not yet been completed. 

The sixth measure addressing elimination of audit items was partially completed. Review of the 21 open 

audits at the beginning of FY 1999 indicates three audits were completed. Ongoing efforts continue to 

address the remaining open audits and the Forest Service submits progress reports to the Department of 

Agriculture twice annually. 

The seventh measure concerning the percent of eligible delinquent debts referred to the Treasury did not 

have an assigned target. The Forest Service does not currently have a reporting system that provides 

the necessary data with which to calculate the percentage of eligible delinquent debts referred to the 

Treasury for offset and cross-servicing during FY 1999. The existing report, known as Schedule 9, will 

require formatting and content modifications to provide the required data. 

Progress toward accomplishing management initiative 3.4 is being made, although only two of the 

performance indicators met their respective target. 

Description of Actions and Schedules: In FY 2000, the entire agency is using FFIS. While the real 

property items identified for inventory in FY 1999 were done, real property inventory will be a continuing 

effort. Development of financial management reports will also be ongoing in FY 2000. Attainment of an 

unqualified audit opinion and elimination of Forest Service audit items from the Secretary’s Management 

report will continue to be a focus, as will referral of eligible delinquent debts to the Treasury. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: As described above, those performance measures not 

accomplished in FY 1999 will be part of the Forest Service continued performance efforts in FY 2000. 

Goal 3: Ensure Organizational Effectiveness. 

Management Initiative 3.5: An effective and efficient administrative organization that supports the 

Forest Service Mission.

1999 Data: There are no performance indicators identified for this Management Initiative. 

Analysis of Results: NA 

Description of Actions and Schedules: Decisions regarding whether this management initiative will be 

included in future Forest Service Performance Plans will depend on revisions to the Strategic Plan that 

will be made during FY 2000. 

Current Fiscal Year Performance: NA 
42 

APPENDIX A: 

Performance Indicators Discontinued or Modified 

In the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan

This appendix shows how performance indicators in the 1999 Performance Report have been modified, 

combined, or discontinued in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Revised Final Performance Report. It shows the 

indicators as they are organized under the objectives in the FY 1999 Performance Report. For each 

objective, this appendix only shows those performance indicators that were discontinued from or have 

been modified in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Revised Final Performance Plan. 

In most cases where indicators have been combined in or discontinued from the FY 2000/FY 2001 

Performance Plan, data on the indicators will continue to be collected for other purposes. 

In addition to the indicators listed below, several customer survey measures included in the FY 1999 

Performance Report and previous versions of the Performance Plan are not included in the FY 2000/FY 

2001 Revised Final Performance Plan. The Forest Service remains committed to ensuring a high degree 

of customer satisfaction. Indicators and measures were not reported here, however, because the Forest 

Service is still working on a systematic plan of measuring customer satisfaction and setting appropriate 

targets to meet this commitment. 

Objective 1.1: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Aquatic Ecosystems

Three performance indicators have been discontinued: 

Abandoned Mine Land (AML) watershed initiative activities 

Bonded non-energy/energy operations administered to standard: number of operations 

Bonded non-energy/energy operations administered to standard: percent of operations 

Objective 1.2: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Forestlands

Four performance indicators have been discontinued: 

Non-industrial Private Forest (NIPF) Stewardship Management Plans (number) 

Legacy Project Acquisition (number of projects) 

Statewide assessments of needs (number of states) 

Value of FEPP equipment loaned to States (millions of dollars) 

Acres covered by NIPF Stewardship Management Plans and acres acquired under legacy project 

acquisitions are still included in the performance plan. 

Objective 1.3: Ensure Healthy and Diverse Rangelands

Two performance indicators have been discontinued: 

Nonstructural range improvements completed (acres) 

Rangelands monitored for progress toward desired condition in Allotment Management Plans 

Objective 1.4: Respond to Hazardous Substance Sites

Three performance indicators have been discontinued: 

Hazardous substance sites characterized 

Hazardous substance site cleanups completed 

Watershed or major abandoned mine land (AML) site cleanup actions initiated under CERCLA 

Objective 1.5: Protect Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TE&S) Species

Two performance indicators have been combined into a single indicator. The two indicators in the FY 

1999 Performance Report are: 
43 

Conservation agreements and strategies (number of sensitive aquatic and terrestrial species) 

Approved and implemented recovery plans (number of listed aquatic and terrestrial species) 

The new indicator that combines these two in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Conservation agreements and strategies and recovery plans (signed agreements) 

Objective 1.6: Develop Scientific and Management Information to Support Sustainable Ecosystem 

Management

Three performance indicators have been combined into a single measure. The three indicators in the FY 

1999 Performance Report are (all use number of assessments as their measurement unit): 

Ecosystem assessments completed: Ecoregion (Domain/Division/Province) scale 

Ecosystem assessments completed: Eco-subregion (Section/River Basin/Sub-River Basin) scale 

Ecosystem assessments completed: Landscape/Watershed scale 

The new indicator that combines these three in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Assessments completed (number) 

A single indicator has replaced the following eleven indicators: 

Terrestrial Ecological Unit Inventories: Eco-subregion (Section/Subsection) scale (acres) 

Terrestrial Ecological Unit Inventories: Landscape scale (acres) 

Terrestrial Ecological Unit Inventories: Land unit scale (acres) 

Aquatic Ecological Unit Inventories: Riverine Valley Segment (miles) 

Aquatic Ecological Unit Inventories: Riverine Stream Reach/Channel Unit (miles) 

Aquatic Ecological Unit Inventories: Lacustrine Lake Type Zone (acres) 

Aquatic Ecological Unit Inventories: Lacustrine Lake Zone/Site Scale (acres) 

Biological Inventories: Forest Resource Inventories (acres) 

Biological Inventories: Rangeland Resource Inventories (acres) 

Biological Inventories: Wildlife Habitat Inventories (acres) 

Biological Inventories: TE&S Species Inventories (acres) 

Human Dimensions Heritage Inventories (acres) 

The detail contained in the eleven inventory measures will continue to be collected. However, a new 

indicator replaces these in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan: 

Above-project inventory completed (million acres) 

The following indicator from the FY 1999 Performance Plan has been combined with Technical Reports 

shown under objective 2.8 and assumed into a broader indicator: 

Scientific papers (number) 

The new indicator in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Number of Research Products, Tools and Technologies Transferred to Users 

The following indicator has been discontinued: 

Air Quality Related Values Inventoried/Monitored 

Objective 1.7: Protect Natural Wilderness Ecosystem Related Values

The following indicator has been discontinued: 

Wilderness covered by approved fire plans (acres) 

Objective 2.1: Provide Quality Recreation Experiences

The following indicator from the FY 1999 Performance Plan has been modified and assumed into a 

broader indicator: 

Trails reconstructed to standard (miles) 
44 

The new indicator in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Trails maintained and improved (miles) 

Objective 2.2: Provide for Heritage Resource Education and Use

The following indicator has been discontinued: 

Heritage sites evaluated (number of sites) 

Objective 2.3: Support Improved Urban Environments

The following indicators have been discontinued: 

Technical assistance to communities (number) 

Training provided (million hours) 

Volunteer assistance generated (million hours) 

Objective 2.4: Support Healthy and Diverse Rural Communities

The following indicators have been discontinued: 

Communities using locally-based measurement systems (number) 

Assistance to tribal and minority communities (number) 

Objective 2.5: Provide for Sustainable Yield of Wood and Forest Products

The following indicator has been discontinued: 

Increased use of underutilized species (million cubic feet) 

Objective 2.6: Provide for Sustainable Grazing Use

The following indicators have been discontinued: 

Range Structural Improvements (number) 

Allotments administered to standard (number) 

Grazing allotments analyzed and NEPA decisions signed (number) 

Objective 2.7: Support Ecologically Sound Mineral Production

The following indicators have been combined into a single indicator (both use number of operations as 

their measurement unit): 

Bonded and non-bonded non-energy operations processed 

Energy operations processed 

The new indicator that combines these two in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Minerals non-energy/energy operations processed (number) 

In addition, the following indicator has been added: 

Minerals non-energy/energy operations administered to standard (number) 

Objective 2.8: Develop Scientific and Management Information to Support Improved Natural 

Resource Management and Use

The following indicators have been combined into a single indicator (both use number of reports): 

Land and resource management plan monitoring and evaluation 

State of the region evaluation reports 

The new indicator that combines these two in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Scheduled monitoring reports (number) 
45 

The following indicators have been combined into a single indicator (both use number of plans): 

Land and resource management plan (LRMPs) revisions, new plans initiated 

Land and resource management plan revisions, new plans completed 

The following indicator in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan combines these two indicators: 

Forests and grasslands initiating or completing new LRMPs or Revisions (number) 

The following performance indicator has been modified: 

Inventory field plots remeasured (percent) 

The new indicator that replaces it in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Percent of Forest Land Covered by the Annual FIA and FHM Programs 

The following indicator from the FY 1999 Performance Plan has been combined with Scientific Papers 

shown under objective 1.6 and assumed into a broader indicator: 

Technical Reports (number) 

The new indicator in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan is: 

Number of Research Products, Tools and Technologies Transferred to Users 

Objective 2.10: Provide for Special Uses and Protect National Forest System Land Title

The following indicators have been discontinued: 

Hydropower license renewals (number) 

Revised primary base series quads maintained to standard (number) 

Revised secondary base series quads maintained to standard (number) 

Objective 2.11: Provide for Safe Infrastructure and Access to National Forest System Lands

The following indicators have been modified in the FY 2000/FY 2001 Performance Plan: 

System roads maintained to standard (miles) 

Investments in existing roads (miles) 

They have been replaced with: 

Road condition index rating 

Roads without critical deferred maintenance needs (percent) 

Roads open to all intended traffic (percent) 

Accident frequency on roads managed and maintained for passenger cars