Little Hoover Commission to Review State Forest Management and Tree Mortality

The Little Hoover Commission (Commission) is conducting a review of the State’s forest management activities in light of California’s 102 million dead and dying trees from the drought-induced tree mortality epidemic.  The review, triggered by recent mortality survey numbers from the USDA Forest Service showing spreading mortality in the central and southern Sierra region as well as increasing mortality in northern areas of the State, will study the State’s overall response to the crisis.  

The Commission also plans to look at the work of the Tree Mortality Task Force and how the State plans to use the information and expertise from that effort to recover and position itself ahead of future crises.

The Little Hoover Commission is an independent state oversight agency created to improve efficiency, economy, and improved service in California’s government operations.  The Commission conducts multiple studies each year, with its most recent studies focusing on such topics as the Mental Health Services Act, occupational licensing barriers, and the Salton Sea. 

The Commission will be holding a public hearing on its forest management review on January 26, 2017 at the State Capitol, Room 437 at 9:30 a.m.  The hearing is open to members of the public, and detailed information can be accessed here.