NACD STATEMENT ON USDA FOREST SERVICE APPOINTMENT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue swore in Vicki Christiansen as Chief of the agency’s Forest Service.Christiansen has been a wildland fire fighter and fire manager for 36 years. Prior to joining the Forest Service, where she has been serving as Interim Chief since March, Christiansen was the Arizona State Forester and Director of the Arizona Division of Forestry. The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) President Brent Van Dykereleased the following statement after Christiansen's swearing-in ceremony:“Chief Christiansen has the necessary tools in her toolkit to hit the ground running in this new role,” Van Dyke said.“During her time at the Forest Service, Christiansen has worked closely with conservation districts to improve the health of our nation’s forests. Due to her education and professional experience, she understands how failing to properly manage our nation’s forests leads to longer and more severe fire seasons. NACD commends Secretary Perdue’s appointment, and we look forward to expanding this productive relationship to continue making improvements to our nation’s public and private forest lands.”