Congress·In Committee·S. 517

Forest Data: Updating National Inventory and Carbon Tracking

Forest Data Modernization Act of 2025

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Stalled

No legislative action in over 90 days.

Legislative Progress

Senate

House

President

Law

This bill updates how the government tracks the health and size of America's forests. It specifically adds "forest carbon" to the list of things the Forest Service must measure, helping experts understand how much carbon dioxide trees and soil are absorbing from the atmosphere.
The plan requires the use of modern technology like satellite imaging, lasers, and machine learning to get more accurate data. It also mandates regular surveys of timber products and private woodland owners to get a better picture of how forests are being used and managed.
The government would be required to make this forest data easy for the public and businesses to access through a new online platform or office. However, it includes strict rules to protect the privacy of private landowners, ensuring their specific locations and personal information stay confidential.
Every two years, the Forest Service would have to release a national report on forest statistics. The agency would also need to update its long-term strategy every five years to keep up with new technology and changing environmental conditions.