U.S. Forest Service proposes logging in Alaskan old-growth forests

The U.S. Forest Service is moving forward with a contentious plan to log over 5,000 acres of trees in the Tongass National Forest, situated in Southeast Alaska.

Last month, the Forest Service released its final environmental impact statement for the proposed South Revillagigedo Integrated Resource Project. The plan includes the harvest of approximately 4,343 acres of old-growth timber and 1,037 acres of young-growth timber from areas designated for timber production and modified landscapes. The forest is primarily dominated by western hemlock.

“The Tongass is one of the country’s last remaining old-growth forests, but Donald Trump and his allies want to give it away to corporate interests,” said Athan Manuel, director of the Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program. “That means giving up our clean air and clean water to pad the bottom lines of big timber companies. These actions put America’s wettest and wildest national forest at risk and could be an opening salvo against forests across the country. Trump wants to chop down the legacy we leave future generations.” Athan concluded.

The South Revilla project spans about 41,000 acres and is set to unfold over 15 years. Along with timber harvesting, the plan includes developing portions of the land for recreational use, as well as new initiatives to improve wildlife habitats, watersheds, and fish management. Notably, the Shelter Cove Area Recreation Master Plan outlines the creation of new roads, a welcome center, parking areas, a boardwalk, and enhanced boat access.

The project, originally introduced in 2026 under President Donald Trump’s first administration, was paused after President Joe Biden took office. The renewed project has been met by objections from various environmental groups including the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council and the Sierra Club.

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