USDA’s Forest Service Wednesday announced nearly $50 million in grant funding. The funding is for proposals that support crucial links between resilient, healthy forests, strong rural economies and jobs in the forestry sector. USDA says the funding will spark innovation, create new markets for wood products, expand processing capacity, and help tackle the climate crisis.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We are investing in rural economies by growing markets for forest products through sustainable forest management while reducing wildfire risk, fighting climate change, and accelerating economic development.” The Forest Service is requesting proposals from eligible entities in the private, non-profit, and government sectors, including Tribes, local and state governments, businesses and for-profit entities, institutions of higher education, as well as public utility, fire, conservation, and school districts, among others.
These investments will support forest management projects to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk across all land ownerships. Visit the Forest Service webpage for more information.