
Idaho Department of Lands Names A New State Forester
Julia Lauch has been designated as Idaho's State Forester. Lauch will oversee IDL’s Forestry and Fire Division which manages wildland fire suppression, forestry assistance, and various forestry and fire management initiatives, including the Good Neighbor Authority, Shared Stewardship, and Forest Legacy programs.
Lauch has 20 years of forestry and fire experience with state natural resource agencies and has spent more than a decade with IDL.
"It’s an honor to step into this role. I appreciate the trust placed in me by Director Miller and look forward to embracing this new challenge," Lauch said. "I believe in the importance of active forest management, safe and effective fire management, and ensuring that our forests continue to provide numerous benefits for Idahoans. Unlike some states, Idaho has the forest products industry infrastructure vital to keeping our forests healthy and productive."
"Julia's experience with forestry and fire along with her leadership and management skills made her my choice for Idaho's State Forester," said IDL Director Dustin Miller. "I am thrilled to have her in this position and expect great things."
Prior to joining IDL in 2011, Lauch spent 11 years with the Oregon Department of Forestry as an Assistant Fire Warden and then as the first South Idaho Fire Liaison, responsible for establishing the Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs) in Idaho. She spent two years as an IDL Regional Operations Chief before taking two years off to stay home with her children while they were young. Lauch returned to IDL 2020.
Lauch received her Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Management from Oregon State University.
The state forester is the leading advocate for the management of Idaho’s forests, limiting damage from insects, disease, and fire and ensuring compliance with the Idaho Forest Practices Act.
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