Forests of the American West provide us with life-sustaining resources, opportunities for development and a high quality of life.

The health of our western forests is essential to the environmental, economic and social well-being of current and future generations.

Yet western forests, and the many benefits, uses and resources they provide, are at risk.

Forest health is in decline across the West and Pacific Islands due to shifting ownership patterns, increased wildland-urban interface, invasive species, wildland fire and the changing climate.

The Council of Western State Foresters (CWSF) works with members and collaborates with partners across boundaries on western strategies that conserve, protect and enhance western and Pacific Island forests.

Conserve

We work to conserve western forests by promoting responsible management of forest resources, sustainable use of forest products and the restoration of forest landscapes to ensure health and productivity now and into the future.

Protect

We protect forests from threats, including wildland fire, forest pests, diseases and invasive species by supporting a collaborative and adaptive approach to planning for, responding to and monitoring threats to western and Pacific Island forests.

Enhance

We support active and sustainable management of trees, forests and watersheds to enhance ecosystem health, economic benefits and community resilience.

Click here to learn more about the pressing issues facing western forests.