Bartlett Experimental Forest Remains Open Amid Review
The U.S. Forest Service confirmed the site will stay operational following a national review of research facilities.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in National Parks
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Following a national review of 64 locations, the U.S. Forest Service decided to retain the Bartlett Experimental Forest in New Hampshire. While 23 sites were identified for closure during the March 2026 reorganization plan, the Bartlett site was not included in that list.
Why it matters
The decision provides stability for ongoing research operations in New Hampshire, which are now being supported by planned renovations funded through the Great American Outdoors Act. These efforts follow legal challenges from unions and nonprofits questioning the Forest Service's restructuring authority.
The U.S. Forest Service reviewed 64 research locations nationwide, ultimately deciding to keep 41 facilities open. The Bartlett Experimental Forest is slated for bunkhouse renovations utilizing grants from the Great American Outdoors Act.
The players
U.S. Forest Service
This federal agency is responsible for managing the nation's forests and grasslands while overseeing numerous research facilities.
Kelly Ayotte
She is the Governor of New Hampshire who announced the reevaluation of the forest closure plans.
Jeanne Shaheen
She is a U.S. Senator representing New Hampshire who visited the forest to engage with local stakeholders.
The details
Although the U.S. Forest Service initially placed over 50 facilities under review, the Bartlett site remains operational as stakeholders work toward a memorandum of understanding for its future. A federal court in California issued a temporary pause on all restructuring efforts on October 13, 2026, which currently remains in effect.
Timeline
March 2026: The USDA announced the Forest Service reorganization plan.
May 2026: Gov. Kelly Ayotte announced the reevaluation of closure plans.
October 13, 2026: A federal court ordered a temporary pause on restructuring.
October 2026: Senator Jeanne Shaheen visited the forest with stakeholders.
December 11, 2026: The court-ordered hold on restructuring expires.
Travel Outlook
The bunkhouse renovation at Bartlett Experimental Forest is funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, which provides essential capital for federal land infrastructure. This investment follows the established trend of utilizing national legislation to preserve research sites during periods of agency restructuring.
Residents and researchers can expect continued operations and facility upgrades at the Bartlett site, ensuring the forest remains accessible for study. Those following the reorganization process should monitor the federal court status after the December 11 hold expires to see how regional management shifts may evolve.
The takeaway
The preservation of the Bartlett Experimental Forest highlights the impact of federal investment in local research infrastructure. Stakeholders should remain engaged as the forest shifts toward a long-term operating model protected by a future memorandum of understanding.
What happens next
The current court-ordered hold on all U.S. Forest Service restructuring efforts is scheduled to expire on December 11, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on protected lands in the state, visit New Hampshire National Parks.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New Hampshire Public Radio.
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