The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service has announced a $265 million initiative to conserve nearly 335,000 acres of forestland across the United States. This funding—secured through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act—will support 21 projects in 17 states, a move that underlines a growing commitment to protect American forests from development pressures. These funds will not only conserve forests but also bolster local economies, maintain biodiversity, and support rural livelihoods.

Forestlands in the U.S. cover approximately 823 million acres, with around 39% of these forests privately owned. Conservation of these lands is crucial, as privately owned forests provide 91% of the nation’s wood supply, support thousands of rural jobs, and create natural buffers for critical ecosystems. However, these lands face increasing pressure from development, climate change, and rising land values.

As Forest Service Chief Randy Moore highlighted, “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, we are protecting parcels we never thought we’d have the resources to secure, allowing future generations to enjoy the irreplaceable benefits they provide.”

Source:  environmentenergyleader.com