November 3, 2025 3:30 a.m. 

First-District State Representative Court Boice is asking officials with the U.S. Forest Service to move swiftly in addressing post-fire recovery efforts within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest following containment on the Moon Complex Fires.

On October 30th, Boice sent a letter to Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest Supervisor Molly Juillerat. Boice said, “The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated”.

Boice said the communities he represents throughout Coos, Curry and Douglas counties rely deeply on the sustainable management of the forestlands. Boice said, “These lands are public assets, and their stewardship is both our ethical duty and an economic necessity”.

Boice said that expedited salvage operations on burned timber are essential to prevent the rapid deterioration of the valuable resource. He said that beyond preserving timber value, these efforts can help offset the substantial costs of firefighting, while generating revenue that supports reforestation, watershed stabilization, and ecosystem rehabilitation.

Boice said in addition, post-fire restoration provides the opportunity to improve critical backcountry infrastructure, including forest roads that are vital to:

*Firefighter safety and rapid emergency response

*Fire suppression and prevention access

*Wildlife habitat protection and fuel control

*Timber harvest and sustainable resource management

*Recreation, tourism and law enforcement accessibility

Boice said given what he believes are these widespread benefits, he strongly encourages the U.S. Forest Service to implement the Emergency Categorical Exclusion under 36 CFR 220.6. This mechanism enables timely, effective salvage and recovery operations in response to catastrophic events, while upholding environmental and regulatory responsibilities.

Boice concluded by saying, “I look forward to working together to ensure a prompt and effective recovery process that benefits our forests, our communities, and future generations”.