Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest welcomes new forest supervisor

PORTLAND, Ore. — Tara Umphries, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the U.S. Forest Service, has been appointed as the new Forest Supervisor for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Umphries, who has served as Acting Forest Supervisor since July 15, will officially take over the position on December 1, following her tenure in the Rocky Mountain Region as a Special Assistant to the Regional Forester, where she concentrated on Shared Stewardship and the Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

"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 began her career in wildland fire in 2002 as a wildland firefighter, progressively advancing to key leadership roles, including Fuels Program Manager for the Willamette National Forest and Fire Planner for the Pacific Northwest’s Region 6. She also served as District Ranger on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, where her work further solidified her reputation for partnership building and proactive fire management strategies. Her leadership in wildfire response and strategic partnerships align with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s ongoing efforts to navigate increasingly complex land management and fire challenges.

“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, who was born and raised in Washington State, will be returning to her home state from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where she currently resides with her partner. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor pursuits such as skiing and fly fishing, often accompanied by her two Labrador retrievers.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest spans approximately 4 million acres in North Central Washington, encompassing varied ecosystems that require strategic management, particularly in the face of wildfire risks and the necessity for conservation efforts. Forest Service officials have highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between the agency, local communities, Tribal nations, and stakeholders to ensure sustainable forest management.

The Forest Service’s announcement emphasized that Umphries’ arrival comes at a crucial time, as the region navigates wildfire preparedness and ongoing land stewardship. Her leadership and deep-rooted commitment to community engagement are expected to be pivotal as the forest tackles present and future challenges.

“She embodies what we strive for in leadership — experience, dedication, and a heart for the community,” Buchanan added.