EMPSi understands the needs of the modern Forest Service, serving as a strategic partner in promoting healthy forests

Throughout the United States, EMPSi’s scientists, engineers, and planners are engaged in analyzing and implementing solutions for the unique environmental challenges in our National Forests. From pre-assessments and development of Forest Plans to wild and scenic river analyses and stakeholder engagement, EMPSi is the leader in providing assistance to the Forest Service. EMPSi partners with the Forest Service to help them address priority programs, including:

EMPSi has an excellent understanding of USFS policy and process, as well as an excellent understanding of NEPA and its requirements.

—Pike and San Isabel National Forests Performance Assessment

National Forest Planning to Foster Resilient, Adaptive Ecosystems

EMPSi helps National Forests across the country navigate all aspects of the forest plan revision process. From the assessment phase to managing the NEPA process, our staff are experts in the 2012 Planning Rule and Forest Service directives. Since 2012, EMPSi has modernized plan direction to support sustained recreation and multiple uses, while also protecting threatened and endangered species and species of conservation concern. We have applied innovative public collaboration strategies that allow for engagement from traditionally underrepresented communities and provide clarity to the decision-making process.

Forest Health and Restoration Through Fuels and Vegetation Management

National Forests face a range of threats, including drought, climate change, extreme weather, wildfires, and insect infestations. EMPSi helps Forest Service managers use the best available science to make informed land use decisions and prioritize resources toward areas of greatest concern. From multi-forest riparian restoration plans to hazardous fuel reduction projects, EMPSi is at the front of forest restoration planning.

Applying Sound Science for Informed Decisions

Utilizing the best available scientific information is critical to implementing legally defensible forest decisions. EMPSi staff are experts in identifying and applying sound science though data collection and interpretation; leveraging the expertise of the public and other agencies; and GIS modeling. We use this information when preparing specialist reports, planning assessments, and other studies to support the Forest Service and their management goals.

Balancing Energy and Mineral Needs with Ecological Functions

The National Forest System plays an important role in supplying the nation’s mineral and energy resources. Managing these resources requires interagency coordination, technical expertise, and an interdisciplinary focus. EMPSi helps forests identify what lands should be made available for future mineral and energy development, including renewables, and what measures are required to protect other resources through the collaborative NEPA process. EMPSi has a unique ability to facilitate interjurisdictional planning efforts from our experience working with both the Forest Service and BLM.