Which agency is primarily responsible for forest conservation and management in the U.S.?

The U.S. Forest Service is the primary agency responsible for forest conservation and management in the United States. Established in 1905, it operates under the Department of Agriculture and manages public lands in national forests and grasslands. The agency's mission includes the sustainable management of these resources, ensuring that forests are protected, while also facilitating recreational opportunities, conservation of wildlife habitats, and the provision of timber and other forest products. Its specific focus on forests, coupled with its well-established programs and regulations governing land use, makes it the leading authority in forest management in the country.

Other agencies mentioned, such as the Department of Agriculture, do play a role in broader agricultural policies and programs that can impact forestry indirectly, but they do not specialize solely in forest conservation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration focuses on oceanic and atmospheric research and conservation, while the Department of the Interior oversees a variety of natural resources and public lands, including national parks and wildlife refuges, but is not specifically dedicated to the management of forests.