This document discusses the threats to forests from land conversion for development and opportunities to address this issue. It notes that about 1.5 million acres of private forests are lost to development each year in the US, with over 20 million additional acres expected to be lost by 2020. The western US and states like California and Washington are particularly at risk of significant forest loss. Conversion contributes to biodiversity loss, reduced forest health, and increased wildfire and climate change risks. The document outlines current policy developments, including provisions in the 2007 Farm Bill, to provide incentives and funding for forest conservation and combat conversion pressures through programs like Forest Legacy. It urges engagement to pass the Farm Bill and support regional and federal climate change initiatives that recognize forests' role