The Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) is a collaborative effort to restore millions of acres of ponderosa pine and mixed-conifer forests across Northern Arizona’s Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, Kaibab, and Tonto National Forests. The project focuses on reducing wildfire risk, promoting ecological health, protecting watersheds, supporting sustainable forestry, and increasing the resilience of surrounding communities. A 2024 study by The Nature Conservancy found that restoration activities on approximately 17,000 acres in 2023 generated about $216 million in regional economic output and supported more than 1,000 full- and part-time jobs. These activities included mechanical thinning, prescribed burns, wood utilization, and related supply chain operations, all of which delivered substantial economic value to rural forest communities.
The study showed that multiple sectors benefited from this work. Commercial logging accounted for approximately $39.6 million in economic output and supported 230 jobs, while sawmills generated around $37.4 million and supported 90 jobs. Support activities for agriculture and forestry produced $2.8 million and 98 jobs, and federal government employment in related areas accounted for $11.6 million and 77 jobs. Truck transportation services saw $13.7 million in output from restoration-related hauling, and electric power generation using restoration byproducts added another $33.5 million. Other sectors such as crop farming, construction, and local services also experienced positive impacts.
This economic momentum has been building for years. In fiscal year 2017, 4FRI-supported activities created almost 1,000 full- and part-time jobs and generated $100 million in direct economic effects, with total regional output reaching approximately $146 million when multiplier effects were included. The increased scale of operations and improved infrastructure since then have amplified the economic and environmental benefits. Beyond the financial impact, the program helps sustain rural economies, enhances forest health, reduces the risk of catastrophic wildfires, and promotes market development for forest products. With continued investment, such as the $48 million allocated in fiscal year 2024, 4FRI is poised to deliver ongoing economic and ecological gains for Northern Arizona.
Sources:
The Nature Conservancy. “Regional Economic Contributions of the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) in Northern Arizona in 2023.” nature.org
U.S. Forest Service. “Four Forest Restoration Initiative.” fs.usda.gov
