USDA Forest Service's collaboration 'a promise to the future'

Regional partners reflect on benefits of USDA's local collaboration on land management and rural economic development in Southeast Alaska.

By Lee House

This story was produced for the Sustainable Southeast Partnership's monthly column with the Juneau Empire, 'Woven Peoples & Place.' Read the full story here.

Left to right: Heath Whitacre (U.S. Forest Service), Jason Gubatayao (Sealaska), Khaax̱wáan Dawn Jackson (Organized Village of Kake) sit on the bridge over Yeíl Héeni (Raven’s Creek) discussing points on a map of north Kuiu Island. (Photo by Lee House)

“As we reflect on the past years, our approach in Southeast Alaska stands as a testament to what is possible when partnership, respect, and shared vision guide our work. By walking alongside Tribes and community partners in ways we never have before, we unlocked new paths toward sustainability – culturally, economically and ecologically. This approach is more than a strategy; it is a promise for the future. Together, we have shown that stewardship is strongest when it is shared, and the roots we have planted this year will grow for generations to come.”

— Chad VanOrmer, Regional Forester, USDA Forest Service Alaska Region.

Read the full story at the Juneau Empire

The story is also available at the Sustainable Southeast Partnership's website: https://sustainablesoutheast.net/u-s-forest-services-tongass-collaboration-a-promise-to-the-future/