How the Forest Service hiring hold could impact Central Oregon
(update: adding video, comments from tourism groups, Discover Your Forest)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - The U.S. Forest Service is pausing seasonal hiring due to budget shortfalls, according to Chief Randy Moore. Congressional appropriations fell about half a billion dollars short of the agency’s request, leaving around 2,400 seasonal positions unfilled.
In the announcement, Chief Moore says the hard budget and hiring discussions are necessary for the future of the agency. He emphasized that the burden will not be placed on their employees.
"We will not be bringing on any additional seasonal [employees], outside of fire,” said Chief Randy Moore. “I need to let you know that we have also converted between 1,300 and 1,400 employees to permanent seasonals."
The most affected seasonal roles include those responsible for maintaining national forest campgrounds, roads, and trails, as well as biologist positions focused on managing forest wildlife, fisheries, and plant life.
Organizations such as Visit Bend and Visit Central Oregon say this will impact tourism, especially during the summer.
"Forest Service starts to stock up on seasonal help in November." said Visit Bend CEO, Jeff Knapp. "We won't really see the impacts of not having that help until we get closer to the summer months."
According to the groups, 90% of visitors come to Central Oregon for outdoor recreation.
"We know that residents also love living here because of the access to the outdoors. And that's a huge draw for visitors." said Scott Larson, CEO of Visit Central Oregon.
With the lack of seasonal workers, guests may see fuller trash cans, fewer open bathrooms, and less services. Larson emphasizes the importance of having a backup plan—if a campground or trailhead is closed, be prepared with an alternative option.
With more trash building up, Knapp recommends packing out any waste you bring to help keep the area clean.
"We're looking for both visitors and locals to be responsible when they're heading out to the forest." said Knapp.
The nonprofit 'Discover Your Forest' is feeling the strain from the hiring hold.
"We also know that will be, some furloughs for our staff, which includes me." said DYF Executive Director, Karen Walsh.
The organization says they may have to reduce some of their programs.
"Volunteers are really a very important part of our operations. But also with, that comes we do need staff and seasonal staff to be able to help train volunteers and on-board them." Walsh said.
