HR-3990 : Still Just a Bill

The Forest Data Modernization Act of 2023, also known as H.R. 3990, seeks to amend the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978 to improve the forest inventory and analysis program. Key provisions include:

• Enhanced Data Collection: Requires the Secretary to carry out a national timber products output survey and a national woodland owner survey.
• Improved Data Standards: Mandates clear definitions of "forest" for reporting, both domestically and internationally.
• Strategic Plan Updates: Directs the Secretary to update the strategic plan to include:
  • Consistent data collection protocols.
  • Integration and reporting on forest carbon pools.
  • Collaboration with federal agencies and the private sector.
  • Increased transparency in reporting.
  • Expanded data collection using remote sensing technology.
• Data Accessibility: Ensures data is easily accessible to public and private entities while protecting confidentiality.
• Regular Compilations: Requires biennial compilations of national forest inventory and analysis statistics.
• External Data Requests: Establishes an office or platform to process complex data requests from external organizations, potentially with fees.
• Annual Reports: Mandates annual reports on the progress of implementing the strategic plan.
• Remote Sensing Technologies: Specifies the use of technologies like microwave, LiDAR, hyperspectral, and high-resolution remote sensing data.

In summary, the bill aims to modernize and improve the accuracy, accessibility, and scope of forest data collection and analysis to better understand and manage forest resources, including forest carbon.