Nevada’s top forestry official nominated to lead Oregon’s Department of Forestry

Nevada’s top forestry official is heading north.

Governor Tina Kotek announced today that she has appointed Kacey KC to serve as State Forester and Director of the Oregon Department of Forestry, pending Oregon Senate approval next month. If confirmed, KC would become the first woman permanently appointed to lead the agency in state history.

KC most recently served as State Forester Firewarden for the Nevada Division of Forestry, a role she has held since 2018. During her tenure, she oversaw wildfire preparedness and response while guiding the agency through major organizational changes and modernization efforts.

“Kacey KC brings tenacity and a get-it-done style to her management approach and knows how to build strong partnerships across all levels of government to tackle complex challenges,” Governor Kotek said in a statement. “I am thrilled to welcome her leadership to support and strengthen the mission of the Department of Forestry.”

KC brings more than 25 years of public-sector forestry experience to the role, spanning both state and national leadership. In 2021, she was selected to serve on the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission, created by Congress to strengthen the nation’s wildfire protection system. Two years later, she was appointed President of the National Association of State Foresters, placing her at the center of wildfire and forest policy discussions nationwide.

“I am extremely excited for the opportunity to join the Oregon Department of Forestry team,” KC said. “While I am not from Oregon, my experience at both the national and state level equips me to deepen key relationships while leading and supporting the strong work and mission of the Department.”

Throughout her career, KC has been recognized for blending technical expertise with executive leadership. Her work has included managing complex budgets and grant portfolios, modernizing forestry and wildfire programs, and embedding science-based decision-making into agency operations. She is also known for bringing together public agencies, elected officials, and partners to advance shared stewardship goals that protect forests, rangelands, and watersheds.

KC’s departure marks a significant leadership transition for Nevada’s forestry agency as she prepares to take on the historic role in Oregon.