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The Nebraska State Forest Action Plan developed by the Nebraska Forest Service outlines a long-term strategy for protecting, restoring, and managing Nebraska’s trees and forests. Nebraska has nearly 1.5 million acres of forestland and more than 1.3 million additional acres with trees outside of traditional forests. These resources support wildlife habitat, protect water and air quality, reduce energy costs, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy through wood products and related industries. However, Nebraska’s forests face growing challenges, including invasive species like emerald ash borer, increased wildfire risk, land-use changes, severe weather, and the effects of a shifting climate.
A major focus of the plan is identifying and prioritizing key geographic areas called Priority Forest Landscapes (PFLs). These include regions such as the Pine Ridge, Niobrara River Valley, Platte River system, Missouri River corridor, and several others across the state. By concentrating funding and technical assistance in these high-need areas, the agency aims to reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health, protect water resources, enhance wildlife habitat, and support rural economies. The plan also highlights several multistate priority areas where Nebraska collaborates with neighboring states to manage shared river systems and forest ecosystems.
The document outlines 12 overarching goals that guide forestry efforts over the next decade. These goals include improving forest health and productivity, restoring fire-adapted landscapes, protecting watersheds, increasing tree planting, supporting the forest products industry, conserving working forestlands, and connecting people to trees and forests. Strategies range from expanding community forestry programs and assisting private landowners with stewardship plans to increasing wildfire suppression capacity and promoting biomass utilization. The plan emphasizes voluntary best management practices and partnerships with federal agencies, Natural Resources Districts, volunteer fire departments, and conservation organizations.
Overall, the Forest Action Plan serves as both an assessment of current forest conditions and a roadmap for future action. It combines updated scientific data, public input, and stakeholder collaboration to create flexible, measurable strategies. The ultimate goal is to ensure Nebraska’s forests remain healthy, resilient, and productive—supporting ecological sustainability, economic development, and quality of life for generations to come.
The full document will be available soon!