Arizona Trail Association official says Forest Service layoffs will be detrimental to state forests

The U.S. Forest Service laid off 10% of its workforce. The state relies on the Forest Service for maintenance of trails, fighting wildfires and access to public lands throughout Arizona.

The impact will not be seen immediately, according to experts.

“These are specialists who are responsible for things like wildlife and culture resources, approving permits, managing forests as a whole,” said Mathew Nelson, executive director of Arizona Trail Association. “Whenever there is any significant cut to funding, the forest suffers.”

Nelson said even before the layoffs, one in four openings was unfilled. He said the public can advocate to elected officials to reinstate forest officials.

“We need to continue to fund land management agencies. Especially in places like Arizona, where the majority of the population participates in outdoor recreation,” Nelson said.

Arizona receives about $15 billion of revenue from outdoor recreation. Nelson said there are six national forests in Arizona.

“Some forests have seen up to a 20% loss of employees, while others are around the national average of 10%,” Nelson said.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to correct the number of national parks in Arizona and clarify where the state relies on the Forest Service for maintenance.