Forest super announces retirement

Flathead National Forest Supervisor Cathy Barbouletos is retiring after 31 years of managing public lands across the western United States.

She began her career as a seasonal hydrologic technician for the Bureau of Land Management in Utah before working for the Payette National Forest in Idaho as a hydrologist and forester.

She then moved to the Dixie National Forest in Utah as assistant district ranger for the Cedar City Ranger District. She also worked on the Willamette and Malheur National Forests in Oregon as team leader, planning staff officer and district ranger prior to being selected as the deputy forest supervisor of the Boise National Forest. Since 1997 Barbouletos has served as the forest supervisor of the Flathead National Forest.

"Managing National Forest System Lands with a multiple-use mission is challenging. It is a balancing act between many resources and the public's needs and demands," Barbouletos said.

She said she believes the Flathead National Forest has been successful in meeting that challenge through an integrated program of work, community partnerships, and the dedication and talent of employees across the forest.

During her career, Barbouletos has seen many changes within and outside the agency. She said she is pleased to see a greater appreciation of restoration principles and focus on what is left on the land rather than what is removed. She said she also believes that many of the people with a passion for national forests are beginning to work together toward common goals.

"My family and I have been fortunate to live, work and play in some of the most beautiful areas of the country," Barbouletos said.

A public open house in honor of Barbouletos' retirement will be Friday, March 26, 4-5:30p.m. at the Kalispell Forest Service Office, 650 Wolfpack Way.

A replacement has not been named.