Forestry Research Advisory Council
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Forestry Research Advisory Council (FRAC) provides strategic advice to the USDA on forestry research, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical forestry management. It focuses on advancing knowledge to support sustainable forest management, conservation, and utilization.
Mission
FRAC's mission is to facilitate the application of research to forest management practices, ensuring forests are managed for economic, ecological, and social benefits. It engages in identifying research needs, promoting scientific collaboration, and advising on policies that support forest health, biodiversity, and resilience in the face of climate change and other pressures.[1]
Parent organization
FRAC is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which is part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Forest Service conducts research to improve forest and rangeland management.[2]
Legislation
FRAC was established by the Agriculture and Food Act of 1981, which mandates the council's role in providing guidance on forestry research.[3]
Partners
- Universities and research institutions
- State forestry agencies
- Non-profit organizations focused on forestry and conservation
- Industry partners in forest products and services[4]
Number of employees
FRAC consists of up to 20 members appointed by the USDA Secretary, representing diverse interests and expertise in forestry.
Organization structure
Members include scientists, educators, industry leaders, and policy experts to ensure a holistic approach to forestry research and management.
Leader
The council is led by a Chair, who oversees meetings and directs the council's recommendations.
Divisions
There are no formal divisions, but FRAC might form working groups for specific research areas:
- Working groups might focus on topics like forest health, climate change impacts, or biomass utilization.
List of programs
- Advising on national forestry research agendas
- Recommendations for forest policy and legislation
- Promoting collaboration between research institutions and forestry stakeholders
Last total enacted budget
The budget for FRAC is not publicly specified; its activities are funded through the USDA Forest Service's research budget.
Staff
FRAC does not have dedicated staff; support is provided by Forest Service research personnel.
Funding
Funding for FRAC activities comes from the USDA's Forest Service budget allocated to research and development.
Services provided
FRAC provides advisory services, focusing on enhancing forest research, policy development, and education to improve forest management practices and ensure the sustainability of forest resources.
Regulations overseen
While FRAC does not oversee regulations directly, its recommendations influence research priorities and policies that can lead to regulatory changes in forest management and conservation.
Headquarters address
1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20250, United States
History
Since its establishment by the Agriculture and Food Act of 1981, FRAC has played a significant role in shaping U.S. forestry research, advocating for research that supports sustainable forest practices and addresses key environmental challenges.[5]
External links
References
- ↑ USDA Forest Service. "Forestry Research Advisory Council". USDA Forest Service, https://research.fs.usda.gov/ (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Forest Service. "About the Forest Service". USDA Forest Service, https://www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Forest Service. "Forestry Research Advisory Council". USDA Forest Service, https://research.fs.usda.gov/ (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Forest Service. "Forestry Research Advisory Council". USDA Forest Service, https://research.fs.usda.gov/ (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ USDA Forest Service. "Forestry Research Advisory Council". USDA Forest Service, https://research.fs.usda.gov/ (accessed February 8, 2025).