National Forests in California: the Strategic Priorities

In October 2008, the Pacific Southwest Region's Leadership Team, comprised of Forest Supervisors, Regional Program Directors, and the Regional Forester, met to discuss and identify the issues of greatest importance to the Forest Service in California.  The Regional Leadership Team identified five strategic priorities that will guide the Region throughout this decade and beyond.  These priorities reflect who we are as a Region and where we intend to go in the future.

The Pacific Southwest Region's five Strategic Priorities are:

1)  Climate Change

2)  Ecological Restoration

3)  Travel Management

4)  NEPA: Enhancing Our Capacity

5)  Ensuring a Healthy Workforce and Workplace

These priorities are forward looking, and by focusing our efforts in these key areas, we will be prepared for the land management challenges of the 21st century, including climate change, the increasing threat of wildfire, and human population pressures.

As a human resources professional in Region 5, you will be involved with hiring and supporting the staff that will carry out all of these priorities, but you will most closely support Strategic Priority Number 5.

Ensuring a Healthy Workforce and Workplace

The Pacific Southwest Region recognizes that our employees are the foundation of our agency and we must ensure their health and welfare in order to successfully accomplish the Forest Service Mission.  Regional and forest leadership throughout the state are focused on employee well being and the quality of our facilities.  As such, Region and local units are encouraging employee participation in fitness programs, the use of flexible work schedules, and are emphasizing the importance of balancing work and family life.  Throughout 2010, leadership will be evaluating work facilities and will identify priorities for improvements including internet access, health and safety improvements, and in some locations, exercise facilities will be added.