SDA Forest Service Announces $20M Investment for Forest Restoration, Wildfire Risk Reduction, and Job Creation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service is investing over $20 million in projects aimed at reducing wildfire risk, restoring healthy forests, and creating jobs. Through the Good Neighbor Authority, the Forest Service will partner with state forestry agencies to undertake critical management work that improves forest health and productivity. This investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will fund projects across 18 states, benefiting communities, forest health, invasive species management, and watersheds. The projects will also provide job opportunities for state crews in rural areas.

Forest Service Chief Randy Moore emphasized the importance of collaboration with states, tribes, and counties in achieving effective forest management. The Good Neighbor Authority, established in 2014, allows for partnerships that pool resources and expertise to enhance forest, rangeland, and watershed restoration efforts.

One example of a project funded through the Good Neighbor Authority is the Tillicum Hazardous Fuels Reduction project on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington State. This project aims to reduce wildfire risk in the nearby city of Entiat and safeguard clean drinking water resources. With $3.3 million in state funding, it covers over 4,000 acres and is part of the Forest Service’s strategy to promote resilient landscapes and communities.

The Forest Service encourages interested individuals to visit their website for more information on the projects and the Good Neighbor Authority. The investments align with the Biden-Harris administration’s focus on infrastructure development, job creation, and building a clean energy economy to address climate change and enhance community resilience.

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