U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Natural Resources and Environment Appointments to Lead on Wildfire Prevention

Alongside President Trump’s visit to California wildfire damage, these appointments reflect a renewed focus on protecting forests and communities nationwide.

Washington, D.C., Jan. 24, 2025 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced key appointments by President Donald J. Trump to support his administration’s focus on forest management, wildfire prevention, and natural resource conservation. Ahead of the President’s visit to California to assess wildfire damage, these appointments highlight a renewed dedication to protecting communities, enhancing forest health, and ensuring responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Kristin Sleeper Appointed as Deputy Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment

Kristin Sleeper will serve as Deputy Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment. Kristin previously held roles as Professional Staff on the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, where she contributed to key natural resource and environmental policy initiatives.

Kristin holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology from Michigan State University, a Master of Environmental Management from the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Montana.

Tom Schultz Appointed as Chief of Staff for Natural Resources and Environment

Tom Schultz will serve as Chief of Staff for Natural Resources and Environment. He previously served as Vice President of Resources and Government Affairs at Idaho Forest Group, where he led timber procurement operations and managed relationships with government officials at all levels. A former United States Air Force Officer, Tom also served as Director of the Idaho Department of Lands, overseeing the management of 2.4 million surface acres of endowment lands and 3.3 million acres of endowment minerals. He held leadership roles in Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, managing the Trust Lands and Water Resources Divisions.

Tom holds a bachelor’s degree in Government from the University of Virginia, a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Wyoming, and a master’s degree in Forestry from the University of Montana.

Background:

USDA’s Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) mission area oversees the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring the sustainable management of the nation’s forests, grasslands, and watersheds. USDA NRE supports proactive forest management to reduce wildfire risks, conserve ecosystems, and maintain the health and productivity of 193 million acres of public lands.

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