Experimental Forests and Ranges

The Forest Service has an outstanding scientific resource in the experimental forests, ranges, and watersheds that exist across the United States and its territories. These experimental areas are sites for most of the long-term studies conducted by Forest Service Research and Development and our partners.

Experimental sites are living laboratories where Forest Service scientists not only make discoveries but also demonstrate research results for cooperators and stakeholders. They provide the opportunity to conduct the bold, imaginative research that will be required for the future.

The Pacific Southwest Research Station administers experimental sites in California and Hawaii incorporating a broad range of climates, forest types, research emphases, and history.