We write to ask that you sign our petition in support of our sponsored legislation, AB 2494, to conserve our state demonstration forest system and end commercial logging in the Jackson Demonstration State Forest.

California’s 14 Demonstration State Forests span approximately 85,000 acres across our Golden State, and represent an extraordinary opportunity to model climate-resilient land stewardship, ecological restoration, enhanced outdoor access, and inclusive governance. California’s Demonstration State Forests were established in the 1940s to demonstrate commercial timber harvest techniques to landowners. Since then, the impacts of commercial timber harvest have been realized, and the priorities for state management have changed. This bill modernizes state forest policy by updating outdated statutes and aligning management practices with California’s climate, biodiversity, and equity goals.

AB 2494, introduced by Assemblymember Rogers, repeals legacy provisions that prioritize industrial logging and mining in demonstration forests. In their place, the bill establishes a forward-looking framework that centers biodiversity conservation, fire resilience, outdoor access, and environmental restoration. In particular, this bill would require commercial timber harvesting to occur only where it aligns with ecological restoration or research. This change would ensure that these forests function as living laboratories for sustainable land management.

This bill also demonstrates a commitment to tribal co-governance and stewardship. Requiring CAL FIRE to seek opportunities for co-management and to integrate local Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge is a meaningful step toward strengthening tribal sovereignty, honoring cultural heritage, and improving ecological outcomes. Indigenous stewardship practices have long demonstrated success in enhancing forest health, biodiversity, and wildfire resilience; outcomes that are essential to achieving California’s 30x30 conservation objectives.

AB 2494 also appropriately refocuses CAL FIRE’s energy to manage demonstration forests for biodiversity and climate resilience while preserving their core purposes of research, education, and sustainable forestry. Continued public access for recreation, including hunting, fishing, foraging, and camping, ensures these lands remain shared resources that benefit all Californians.

We appreciate the bill’s recognition of the ecological and educational importance that demonstration forests have. By supporting timber research, encouraging partnerships with local governments, and addressing development impacts on surrounding communities, the legislation balances conservation with long-term community benefits.

Finally, this bill strengthens the forest system’s financial footing by enabling support from the Timber Regulation and Forest Restoration Fund. With this revenue stream, the demonstration forest system can sustain the research, restoration, infrastructure, and public-serving mission that Californians expect.

We call on lawmakers to pass this important legislation to ensure our demonstration forests are managed for the benefit of all Californians.