TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — The U.S. Forest Service program is starting a new program that aims to help non-native English speakers enjoy their visit to national forests.
The News Tribune newspaper reports (http://is.gd/AdNwRy ) the telephone interpretation service is a pilot project in the Pacific Northwest region of the U.S. Forest Service.
People visiting forest lands in Washington and Oregon will be able to call in and receive information in 170 languages. Of course, the service will only work in places where telephone service is available.
Call data will be assessed to determine the need for future services.
The Pacific Northwest region of the Forest Service consists of 17 national forests, 59 district offices, two national scenic areas, a national grassland and two national volcanic monuments.
