Forest Service scientists are at the forefront of protecting forests and responding to forest health challenges. Forests and rangelands are vulnerable to environmental stresses such as fire, insect infestation, diseases, invasive species, and drought. Forest Service scientists evaluate the effects and consequences of these multiple, often interacting stresses on forest and rangeland health.

Researchers and practitioners of forest plant pathology and entomology play critical roles in keeping trees healthy through management. Breeders and plant pathologists partner to develop disease-resistant tree varieties, harness emerging technologies to detect novel threats, and discover innovative strategies for managing forest diseases and pests, including the use of biological control agents.