doi:10.7916/kkc7-se46Oral history interview with Thomas L. Tidwell, 2021Tidwell, Thomasoral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesEcosystem management--United StatesClimatic changes--United StatesForest fires--Prevention and control--United StatesCommunication in politics--United StatesTidwell, ThomasObama, BarackUnited States. Forest ServiceThomas Tidwell reflects on his service as chief of the United States Forest Service (USFS) from 2009 to 2017. Tidwell recounts formative experiences from his service in USFS prior to his appointment by President Obama, and speaks widely about his efforts to change major aspects of USFS policy. He focuses on the agency's shift from an emphasis on production forestry to an ecological approach to ecosystem management, and describes the agency's efforts to adapt practices to climate change-induced changes to American landscapes. Tidwell provides details about notable issues and initiatives with which he was closely involved, including the location of the USFS in the United States Department of Agriculture and the coordination of interagency activities; the USFS budget and his management of congressional relations; USFS's approach to firefighting, particularly in the context of changing fire conditions; efforts to increase the diversity and inclusivity of USFS; his collaborative approach to relations with environmental groups and tribal leaders; and the challenges associated with public communications in the changing media environment. Also discussed are conservation and the protection of endangered species; the increased significance of recreation on USFS lands; livestock and grazing policy; the role of USFS in job creation and the economic recovery; and the stature of USFS region 1