Forest Data Modernization Act: Data Modernization in the 2024 Farm Bill

Every five years (give or take), Congress passes a new Farm Bill, a comprehensive omnibus bill that tackles crucial agricultural and food policy issues. This includes commodity programs, trade, rural development, agricultural research and food and nutrition programs. In late May 2024, the House of Representatives favorably reported their version of this year’s bill out of the Agriculture Committee. This bill, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, includes extensive provisions that have been the focus of much bicameral and bipartisan discussion and negotiation. 

Amidst the wide-ranging provisions, one section stands out in the House Farm Bill for its forward-thinking approach to data and technology in natural resource management – and it includes a bipartisan bill called the Forest Data Modernization Act. Section 8304 focuses on modernizing the U.S. Forest Service's Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program, which is responsible for assessing the nation's forest resources. The proposed legislation recognizes that to effectively manage these vital resources in the face of climate change, economic shifts, and other 21st century challenges, the FIA program must harness the full potential of data and technology.

To achieve this, Section 8304 outlines a comprehensive data modernization effort. It calls for expanding data collection to include critical information on forest carbon and biomass, improving data consistency and accuracy through standardized protocols and advanced remote sensing technologies, and making data more accessible to researchers, policymakers, and the public.

But Section 8304 goes beyond just technical upgrades, it embodies key principles of effective data policy. By requiring the U.S. Forest Service to update its strategic plan, set clear priorities, and regularly report on progress, the legislation promotes transparency and accountability for how forest data is governed. The proposed legislation strikes a balance between making data open and accessible while safeguarding sensitive information and positions the FIA program to leverage data for public benefit, whether that's informing climate strategies, supporting sustainable resource management, or spurring economic opportunities in the forestry sector.

Section 8304 can serve as a model for crafting effective data modernization policy. Effectively leveraging and modernizing government data requires a proactive approach to data governance that considers issues of data rights, privacy, security, resilience, ethics, and fairness. Policymakers must ensure that individual and community interests are protected as data is collected and used, while also safeguarding against breaches, disruptions, misuse, and discrimination. This is particularly crucial as artificial intelligence and algorithmic decision-making become more prevalent.

At the same time, policies should encourage responsible data innovation and sharing for the public good. By breaking down silos and promoting collaboration across sectors and disciplines, we can harness the power of data to solve society's most pressing challenges - from public health crises to environmental threats to economic inequality.

Ultimately, data modernization needs more than good data management - a modern data infrastructure needs to be guided by robust data policy. As the data revolution continues to transform every aspect of our lives, policymakers have a responsibility to proactively shape this transformation to benefit society as a whole. By following the example set by Congress in proposing language like Section 8304 for the Forest Service, and embracing a comprehensive data policy framework, we can unlock the full potential of data-driven innovation while protecting the rights and well-being of individuals and communities. In the 21st century, data policy serves not only as a means for effective governance but also as a crucial framework for shaping a brighter, more equitable future. 

CORINNA TURBES is the director of data policy for the Data Foundation. 

Note: This blog post was created with the assistance of an AI tool. The AI did not independently write or publish this post. The author takes full responsibility for reviewing, editing, and approving the final content