Tara Umphries will assume the role on December 1

information released, USDA Forest Service photo

The Forest Service is excited to welcome Tara Umphries as the new Forest Supervisor for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Umphries comes to the forest from the Rocky Mountain Region, where she served as a Special Assistant to the Regional Forester focused on Shared Stewardship and Wildfire Crisis Strategy. She has been serving as the Acting Forest Supervisor since July 15 and will officially assume the role on December 1.

“Tara’s extensive experience and collaborative spirit will be a tremendous asset to the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest,” said Jacque Buchanan, Regional Forester for the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Region. ”Her background in wildfire management and dedication to engaging with local communities resonate deeply with our region’s goal to build lasting partnerships. I am confident that her leadership will enhance our efforts to support both the needs of the community and the wildlife that depend on these lands.”

Umphries brings an abundance of experience from her over 20 years of service with the Forest Service. She began her career in wildland fire, starting in 2002 as a wildland firefighter and then moving into wildfire leadership roles including Fuels Program Manager for the Willamette National Forest and Fire Planner for Pacific Northwest Region 6. She also served as District Ranger on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Her background in wildland fire, work with partners, and leadership of Wildfire Crisis Strategy work make her a great fit for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to work on such a diverse and complex forest with amazing people. The people and partnerships on the Okanogan-Wenatchee have really stood out to me over the past several months while I’ve been acting in the position,” said Umphries. “I look forward to being able to support the work they are doing and the relationships the forest has with the Tribal nations, communities, partners and the public it serves.”

Umphries was born and raised in Washington State. In her personal time, she enjoys skiing, fly fishing, and just about any outdoor activity, especially when it can include her two labradors. She will be relocating to Wenatchee, WA from Steamboat Spring, Colorado, where she and her partner currently reside.