ICYMI: Newhouse Holds Forestry and Horticulture Subcommittee Hearing with U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz

Press Release
For Immediate Release: July 22, 2026
Contact: Juan Ayala, (202) 713-7750

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, House Forestry and Horticulture Subcommittee Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) held a hearing to receive an update about the U.S. Forest Service's priorities regarding wildfire management, disaster recovery, recreation access, and infrastructure.

Chairman Newhouse discussed the current wildfire season impacting Central Washington, the reorganization of the Forest Service, and the need for better stewardship of our national forest system. With 2026 on track to be one of the worst fire seasons in recent history, more needs to be done to reduce the threats of catastrophic wildfires.

Newhouse also took a moment to recognize Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson, three firefighters who tragically lost their lives in the Knowles fire in Colorado just a few weeks ago on June 29th.

Chief Schultz stressed the importance of wildfire safety, preparedness, and responsiveness. He talked about the service's work across Tribal and local governments to streamline forest management and how he is working to improve effectiveness. Schultz also commented on grazing, reforestation, and accelerated efforts to restore areas impacted by wildfires.

Click here(link is external) to watch Chairman Newhouse's opening statement.

Click here(link is external) and here(link is external) to watch his rounds of questioning.

Click here(link is external) to watch the full committee hearing.