The Forests have each partnered with the US Forest Service National Collaboration Cadre to assist in organizing an authentic public participation process for revision of National Forest Management Plans. Beginning January 31, Cadre team members will visit impacted communities to conduct informal "listening" sessions with community members and stakeholders to learn how the Forest Services  can "develop and implement an effective and efficient public participation and collaboration process." Listening sessions are meant to help the agencies understand the context of local situations and to provide information for subsequent public workshops in March. In an announcement, they assert "Forest plan revision is a long and complex undertaking and we need your help in creating a collaborative strategy that best fits the diverse needs and contexts of our communities." Participants can expect informal conversations in small groups of 8, with 2 Cadre members. The Cadre hopes to learn:

a) examples when participants worked well in community efforts in the past;

b) ways the Forest can improve further public participation and collaboration efforts;

c) opportunities for collaboration;

d) important issues and trends that might emerge;

e) other participants/interests who should be included in the process. 

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