Speaking on Business: National Forest Foundation

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The National Forest Foundation, or NFF, partners with the U.S. Forest Service working across 193 million acres to reduce wildfire risk, restore watersheds and expand outdoor access. Utah Program Coordinator, Matthew Podolinsky, joins us with more. Matthew Podolinsky: Utah is home to more than 8 million acres of National Forest land — public lands that help define the state. In partnership with the Forest Service, the NFF is leading a variety of projects on these landscapes. Utah’s outdoor recreation economy is a 10 billion dollar powerhouse supporting over 75,000 jobs. That economic development depends on well-maintained, accessible public lands. Alongside our partners, the NFF is modernizing aging infrastructure by restoring campgrounds and trails to improve access and elevate the outdoor experience across the state. But in Utah, this work goes beyond recreation. It’s also about water. From restoring streams and floodplains to revitalizing wetlands, these efforts help secure reliable water sources for communities while supporting wildlife and biodiversity. The NFF’s work turns a shared love of the outdoors into meaningful action, ensuring Utah’s national forests remain healthy, resilient and accessible for generations to come. Learn more at NationalForests.org. Derek Miller: Through restoration and conservation efforts, the National Forest Foundation helps keep Utah’s mountains healthy and accessible, making it easier for people to safely enjoy outdoor recreation and experience the state’s natural landscapes. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 5/18/26