41 states receive funding under the Secure Rural Schools program to improve roads and escape routes in national forests.
The U.S. Forest Service invested $232 million this month to support public schools, roads, and other municipal services in 41 states and Puerto Rico, distributing the funds allocated for the 2023 fiscal year. This will allow 745 eligible counties to manage community access across more than 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Over the last 10 years, the Forest Service has distributed $2.4 billion to maintain this network of local infrastructure.
“The Secure Rural Schools program is just one of the ways the Forest Service supports communities nationwide,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “This funding aids schools and roads, reimburses counties for national forest emergency services, and assists in creating community wildfire protection plans – all critical programs designed to enhance the quality of life in these communities.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Chief Moore to be led by the Lord as he heads the U.S. Forest Service.
- For wisdom for Secretary Tom Vilsack as he oversees the Department of Agriculture.
- For USDA officials as they seek to support the maintenance of rural infrastructure.
Sources: Department of Agriculture
