The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the appointment of Capitol Hill veteran Kristin Sleeper and former Idaho Department of Lands Director Tom Schultz to key positions focused on forest management, wildfire prevention, and natural resource conservation. These appointments underscore a renewed commitment to protecting communities, enhancing forest health, and ensuring responsible stewardship of natural resources.
Kristin Sleeper will serve as the deputy under secretary for Natural Resources and Environment at USDA. With a background in natural resource and environmental policy initiatives, Sleeper previously held positions on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources and House Agriculture Committees. She most recently served as a senior adviser to newly-elected Montana Senator Tim Sheehy. Sleeper brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, where she will play a crucial role in shaping policies related to natural resources and the environment.
Tom Schultz has been appointed as the chief of staff for Natural Resources and Environment at USDA. Schultz’s background includes serving as vice president of resources and government affairs at the Idaho Forest Group, where he oversaw timber procurement operations and managed relationships with government officials. Prior to that, Schultz served as the director of the Idaho Department of Lands, where he managed millions of acres of endowment lands and minerals. With a background as a former United States Air Force officer and leadership roles in Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Schultz brings a diverse set of skills and experiences to his new position.
The appointments of Sleeper and Schultz come at a critical time, as President Trump is set to visit California to assess wildfire damage and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response. These appointments signal a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by wildfires, enhancing forest health, and promoting responsible natural resource management.
Both Sleeper and Schultz will oversee the U.S. Forest Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, focusing on the sustainable management of the nation’s forests, grasslands, and watersheds. President Trump recently nominated Idaho businessman Michael Boren to be undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment, and if confirmed, both Sleeper and Schultz would report to Boren.
In his first presidential visit outside the Beltway since taking office, President Trump visited North Carolina to assess damages from Hurricane Helene, which caused catastrophic damage to crops, farms, and the region’s agriculture industry in October. These visits underscore the administration’s commitment to responding to natural disasters and supporting affected communities.
For more news and updates on agricultural policy and developments, visit www.Agri-Pulse.com. The appointments of Kristin Sleeper and Tom Schultz at USDA reflect a dedication to addressing key issues related to forest management, wildfire prevention, and natural resource conservation. Their combined expertise and experience will play a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives that promote the sustainable management of the nation’s natural resources and protect communities from the impacts of wildfires and other natural disasters.