The Forest Service will work closely in partnership to use scientific research for better management decisions as we focus on the Forest Service Natural Resource Agenda. Our natural resource agenda focuses on building partnerships to protect and restore out nations watersheds, to sustain our forests, to improve our forest road system, and enhance America s wildland recreation opportunities. You re living next to a good example of a one of the largest watersheds in the nation. About 160 inches of precipitation combined with the glacial runoff provide the lifeblood for the delta. This massive amount of rain and snow helps produce these wetlands.
Wetlands are increasingly important throughout the United States.
Unfortunately, more than half of all the previously existing wetlands in the United States are now vanished lost to ditching, draining, diking, or other forms of development. Forest Service managed lands all across the nation are uniquely positioned to contribute to the conservation and restoration of habitats for shore birds, migratory waterfowl, large ungulates and endangered species. I would like to share with you my vision to maintain and restore the health of our lands and water that can only happen with your help. I'm here representing the collective efforts of 30,000 dedicated Forest Service employees and partners as we mutually protect and restore our natural resources through science, stewardship, and public awareness. As natural resource professionals, we look suspiciously at politics.