Rollins Is Poised to Lead Conservation and Forestry Efforts Benefiting Wildlife Habitat and Rural Communities
The Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society commended the confirmation yesterday by the U.S. Senate of Brooke Rollins as secretary of agriculture. Rollins brings a strong policy background and an appreciation for the role of working lands and forests in supporting both rural economies and wildlife conservation.
“Healthy forests, sustainable habitat and resilient rural communities depend on sound leadership at the USDA,” said Katie McKalip, RGS & AWS vice president of communications and marketing. “We look forward to working with Secretary Rollins to ensure that forestry and conservation programs remain a priority. By supporting active forest management and advancing voluntary, incentive-based conservation on private lands, her leadership will be critical to the success of our nation’s conservation efforts.”
USDA’s Natural Resource and Environment program, which directs Forest Service activities, is already staffed with reliable experts in Tom Schultz, chief of staff, and Kristin Sleeper, deputy undersecretary for natural resources and environment. Upon confirmation of Michael Boren as undersecretary of natural resources and the environment, the USDA team will be well equipped to begin work.
The USDA plays a pivotal role in managing the country’s forests and private land conservation programs. In her new role, Secretary Rollins will oversee 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands, as well as key conservation initiatives such as the Conservation Reserve Program, which facilitates vital habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and countless other species.
As Congress frames the next Farm Bill, RGS & AWS will work closely with Secretary Rollins and USDA leadership to advocate for robust investments in forest stewardship, wildlife habitat programs and public access initiatives. These efforts not only benefit upland bird populations; they also provide economic opportunities for rural communities through recreation and sustainable land management.
Learn more about why grouse hunters should care about the Farm Bill.
About the Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society
RGS & AWS unites conservationists to improve wildlife habitat and forest health for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and ALL forest wildlife. We promote forest stewardship for our forests, our wildlife and our future. Backed by our community of passionate conservationist members, RGS & AWS employs a network of forestry management professionals to work alongside public and private stakeholders. The tenets of sound science in wildlife and forestry have guided RGS & AWS for over 60 years and onward.
