Forest Service Watershed Condition Classification Technical Guide

The watershed condition policy goal of the FS is “to protect National Forest System
watersheds by implementing practices designed to maintain or improve watershed
condition, which is the foundation for sustaining ecosystems and the production of
renewable natural resources, values, and benefits” (FSM 2520). This policy was reemphasized by USDA Secretary of Agriculture Vilsack in his “Vision for the Forest
Service” when he stated that achieving restoration of watershed and forest health would
be the primary management objective of the USDA Forest Service (USDA 2010). This
“Watershed Condition Classification Technical Guide” helps to implement this policy
objective by:
- Establishing a systematic process for determining Watershed Condition Class that
can be applied consistently by all National Forests,
- Improving FS reporting and tracking of watershed condition, and
- Strengthening the effectiveness of the FS to maintain and restore the productivity
and resilience of watersheds and their associated aquatic systems on NFS lands.