Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies, and Alaska Native Corporations are eligible for the infrastructure funding.
The Department of Agriculture announced that the U.S. Forest Service is accepting applications for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program. The funding from infrastructure legislation is intended to support at-risk communities, including Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies, and Alaska Native Corporations, in reducing wildfire risks and enhancing resilience.
“We are proud to be partnering with Tribes, local communities, and a wide range of partners in working towards our mutually shared goals of addressing the wildfire crisis, mitigating climate change, and safeguarding the communities we serve,” said Secretary Tom Vilsack.
The program has awarded $197 million to 99 projects in its first year. The USDA secretary also highlighted other investments in the region and nationwide that complement the 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which include modernizing landscape management, funding the Good Neighbor Authority, promoting wood energy economies, and conserving significant forestlands through the Forest Legacy program.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Vilsack to look to the Lord for direction as he leads the USDA.
- For Forest Service Chief Randy Moore as he supports at-risk communities in improving wildfire risk management.
- For USDA officials as they evaluate applications for Community Wildfire Defense Grants.
Sources: Department of Agriculture
