Key Takeaways

• Kristin Sleeper and Tom Schultz appointed to key USDA roles focused on forest management and resource conservation.
• Sleeper will be deputy undersecretary while Schultz serves as chief of staff for Natural Resources and Environment.
• These appointments coincide with President Trump’s visit to California to assess wildfire damage and resource management efforts.

New Appointments at USDA Address Forest Management and Natural Resources

Kristin Sleeper and Tom Schultz are stepping into significant roles at the USDA, focusing on forest management, wildfire prevention, and natural resource conservation. Sleeper will assume the role of deputy undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment, while Schultz has been appointed chief of staff for the same division, according to a recent agency announcement.

Sleeper brings a wealth of experience in natural resource and environmental policy, having served on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources and House Agriculture Committees. Recently, she worked as a senior adviser for Montana’s newly-elected Senator Tim Sheehy. Her background is expected to guide policies that bolster the sustainable management of forests, grasslands, and watersheds across the country.

Schultz, who has held multiple leadership positions, most recently served as vice president of resources and government affairs at the Idaho Forest Group. In that role, he managed timber procurement operations and fostered relationships with government entities. His previous experience includes directing the Idaho Department of Lands, where he was responsible for managing 2.4 million surface acres and 3.3 million acres of mineral rights. Moreover, Schultz is a former United States Air Force officer and has held key roles within Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

The timing of these appointments is notable, as they coincide with President Trump’s visit to California to evaluate the damage caused by recent wildfires. The USDA press release emphasized that these new roles underscore a renewed commitment to protect communities and enhance forest health while ensuring responsible stewardship of the nation’s natural resources.

During his California trip, Trump will also review the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) response to the wildfire crisis. Earlier that day, he visited North Carolina to assess the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated local agriculture in October.

Both Sleeper and Schultz will oversee the U.S. Forest Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. These agencies play crucial roles in implementing sustainable practices to manage the nation’s environmental resources effectively. Furthermore, President Trump has nominated Idaho businessman Michael Boren as undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment, pending confirmation. Once confirmed, Sleeper and Schultz will report directly to Boren as they undertake their new responsibilities.

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