
USDA today announced $23 million in grants to support
transporting hazardous fuels – such as dead or downed trees –
from national forests to processing facilities. Through the USDA
Forest Service’s Hazardous Fuels Transportation Program, these
grants will reduce the hazardous fuels that pose wildfire
threats to communities, critical infrastructure and recreation
areas.
"President Trump has directed his cabinet to unleash domestic
production of our natural resources, including timber. Our
nation is blessed with an abundance of resources and there is no
reason we cannot responsibly harvest and use these products
right here at home. Investments like these are delivering on our
commitment to protect communities, make forests healthier and
more resilient," said Secretary Rollins. "Removing hazardous
fuels not only reduces wildfire risk but also creates
opportunities for businesses and workers in the wood products
industry. These grants also reflect the Forest Service’s
dedication to active forest management, and we will continue
working to keep our forests productive, sustainable, and safe
for future generations."
This work directly supports President Trump’s Executive Order on
increasing domestic timber production as well as Secretary
Rollins’ direction to have the Forest Service (PDF, 2.9 MB) ramp
up active forest management on national forests to improve
forest health, reduce wildfire risk, and support rural
prosperity.
Source: biomassmagazine.com