Troy Heithecker

DENVER — The U.S. Forest Service has a new new regional forester for the Rocky Mountain Region. Troy Heithecker was appointed to the position last week and he will be on the job effective later this summer. Deputy Regional Forester Steve Lohr will serve as acting regional forester until Heithecker reports. 

Heithecker will lead more than 2,000 permanent and seasonal employees and share stewardship of 22 million acres of national forests and grasslands with partners and 48 affiliated tribes in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.    

“Troy is a proven and compassionate leader who will bring experience to the Rocky Mountain Region essential to carrying out agency and regional goals. Through his guidance, we will continue our vital work with partners to improve ecological function, reduce the threat from wildfire to forests and grasslands and the surrounding communities, enhance the user experience, provide outstanding recreational opportunities and, internally, care for the physical, mental and psychological wellness of the workforce,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “His exceptional leadership strength makes him well fit to address the opportunities and challenges across the region in supporting the multiple uses and interests of these public lands.”  

Heithecker currently serves as associate deputy chief for the National Forest System where he oversees national programs for Forest and Rangeland Management, Vegetation Ecology, Lands, Minerals and Geology, the National Partnership Office and the National Forest System Equity/Justice 40 Initiative Team. Heithecker has also served in numerous leadership positions throughout his career with the Forest Service including roles as forest supervisor of the Ouachita National Forest in Hot Springs, Arkansas, deputy forest supervisor on the Tongass National Forest and has held temporary assignments as deputy regional forester in the Rocky Mountain Region, and forest supervisor on the Tongass National Forest.  

“I’m honored to serve in collaboration with our five states, tribal governments, communities, partners, and the workforce of the Rocky Mountain Region,” said Heithecker. “The region is flush with opportunities for shared stewardship and meaningful advances toward sustaining and enhancing these amazing public lands, and I look forward to strengthening relationships as we pursue important goals together.”  

Heithecker started his career with the Forest Service in 1997 as a volunteer with the Pacific Northwest Research Station in Juneau, Alaska, working as a field technician in research silviculture. While completing college, he spent his summers implementing research silviculture projects on the Tongass and Gifford Pinchot National Forests where he learned the complex dynamics of managing public lands for multiple uses.  

Heithecker earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Colorado State University and a master’s degree in forest ecology from the University of Washington. He enjoys all things outdoors, playing music and spending time with his wife and two kids.  

Heithecker replaces Regional Forester Frank Beum who has served as regional forester for the Rocky Mountain Region since April 12, 2021. Beum is retiring May 31, after a 43-year career in public service.