Forest Service: Timber Sales in Fiscal Years 2014-2023.

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report examines the Forest Service's timber sales from fiscal years 2014-2023, emphasizing the agency's goal of managing the National Forest System for various purposes. It describes the different methods used by the Forest Service to sell timber, such as contracts, agreements, and permits, as well as the challenges faced in meeting timber sale targets due to limited resources and natural disasters. The report also details the process for managing timber sales, including permit applications, project approval, and contract requirements, with sales over $10,000 requiring a 30-day advertisement period and proof of financial responsibility. The Forest Service determines timber targets based on forest plans, industry demands, staffing capabilities, and budget constraints, and has made changes to how timber sales are calculated, including the inclusion of firewood permits in the total volume sold. [Extracted from the article]