We’re lucky—now let’s act like it

The Valley holds one of the largest concentrations of public land on the East Coast. From ridgeline vistas to quiet trout streams and beloved mountain bike trails, our forests connect people to nature and to each other.

But right now, the future of those places—and the people who care for them—is at risk.

A Forest Service in crisis

The U.S. Forest Service has been underfunded for decades. This year, the situation worsened: since February, USDA shed more than 16,000 employees, including critical Forest Service staff. The impacts are visible:

• Trail maintenance & recreation planning deferred or delayed
• Wildfire risk reduction projects pushed back
• Conservation work weakened across watersheds and habitats
• Local offices threatened with closure or consolidation

Why this matters in the Shenandoah Valley

Here in the Valley, the Forest Service isn’t abstract—it’s our partner in the George Washington National Forest. With your volunteer hours and support, the Coalition has directed over $1 million in grants and private funds into trail improvements, relocations, and new construction. Every one of those projects depends on collaboration with Forest Service staff.

When offices are understaffed, it’s harder to approve, monitor, and complete projects. Storm damage lingers, trails overgrow, and wildfire risk increases. Healthy forests, a strong outdoor economy, and vibrant communities all depend on a well-staffed, locally rooted Forest Service.

What’s happening now

On August 1, 2025, USDA announced a department-wide reorganization plan and opened a public comment period. The proposal follows this year’s layoffs and raises the possibility of further staff reductions, office closures, and relocations.

Deadline: The official press release lists August 31, 2025 for comments. Some outlets cite August 26, so we recommend submitting by the 26th to be safe.

How you can help (it takes two minutes)

1. Submit a comment now. Tell USDA why strong, local Forest Service staffing matters for trails, conservation, and community safety.
2. Share your story. Personalized experiences—biking, hiking, volunteering—carry the most weight.
3. Spread the word. Ask a friend to comment. Public voices can shape this decision.

Sample language you can personalize

“I’m concerned the USDA reorganization will further weaken the Forest Service. Staff cuts already limit trail maintenance, recreation planning, and wildfire prevention. Please avoid additional layoffs and office closures, and strengthen local capacity so communities like ours can partner effectively to care for public lands.”

Our call from the Shenandoah Valley

At the Coalition, we believe trails and public lands build healthier, more connected communities. But trails don’t maintain themselves—and forests don’t manage themselves. We need skilled, local staff alongside volunteers and partners.

Let’s make sure the folks in Washington hear us loud and clear: a strong, well-staffed Forest Service is essential for healthy forests, safe trails, and thriving communities.

Questions? Contact the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition.