Exploring New Models for a National Forest: CBI Helps Lead Focus Groups

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The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) asked CBI and the Massachusetts Office Of Dispute Resolution (MODR) to explore the possibility of a new, innovative model for a National Forest unit in the Northern Berkshire region.

To explore this concept, a joint idea from the state and the U.S. Forest Service, CBI and MODR conducted 12 focus groups with over 80 individuals. The team met with landowners, regional economic development agencies, land trusts, foresters, and others. The assessment team sought to gain insight into stakeholders’ views and concerns about the idea as well as how the state should engage them in further deliberation on the concept.

In general, most, but not all interviewees across various interest groups expressed concern and uncertainty about the ideal of a National Forest service unit within Massachusetts

Almost all recognized the unique challenges in this region today, including increased development pressure, a forestry industry in recession if not decline, struggling municipalities, and chronic state underinvestment. Furthermore, many noted the importance of preserving the current way of life, the rural character, small town life, and working, beautiful forest and open landscapes. Thus, they did see benefit in the additional assistance that state and federal dollars and technical resources could provide. But most interviewees expressed strong concern about the mechanism for state-federal support (a new, innovative Forest Service unit), although they agreed that partnerships were essential across sectors and governments to ensure the vitality and future of the region.

The focus groups were led by Patrick Field and Ona Ferguson, CBI, and Loraine Della Porta and Kurt Dettman , MODR. Read the Focus Group and Interview Summary Report.