GOLDEN, CO (MARCH 6, 2025)—The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) welcomes the appointment of Tom Schultz as the next Chief of the U.S.D.A. Forest Service and looks forward to working together to ensure the responsible stewardship of our nation’s public lands and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT). 

As the administering agency of the CDT, the Forest Service plays a vital role in the management and protection of the CDT. CDTC hopes that the new Chief’s extensive experience in land management, background in state agencies and private industry, and strong connection to the Continental Divide landscape provide a unique perspective that will continue to build partnerships and enhance the Forest Service’s ability to fulfill its mission of “caring for the land and serving people.”

CDTC understands the challenges facing the Forest Service as our main partner in the stewardship of the CDT, including staffing shortages, resource constraints, and increasing pressures on public lands. We are eager to collaborate with the new Chief and his team to ensure that the CDT and the communities along its corridor continue to receive the attention and resources needed to thrive. 

By working together, we can support responsible land management, improve access and recreation opportunities, strengthen cooperative and shared stewardship of the CDT, and foster strong partnerships that benefit both public lands and connected communities.We encourage the new Chief to continue engaging with conservation organizations, recreation advocates, and local communities who share a deep commitment to public lands. We also look forward to working together to strengthen relationships with Tribal Nations, who have stewarded these lands for generations and whose voices are essential in shaping the future of public land management.

The CDT is more than just a trail; it is a living connection between landscapes, communities, and history. CDTC remains committed to advocating for policies and leadership that enhance and protect these irreplaceable resources in partnership with the Forest Service.

As the new Chief steps into this important role, we look forward to a collaborative and productive relationship that ensures the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail continues to provide lasting benefits for generations to come.

Find former Chief Randy Moore's resignation letter here.