MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) – Alabama will see new federal investment aimed at strengthening forest health and timber production.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced more than $8 million for five new Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration projects nationwide, including one based in Alabama.
The project, called “Alabama Chattahoochee Fall Line Restoring Longleaf,” will focus on restoring longleaf pine in the National Forest in Alabama. Officials say the work will reduce wildfire risks, improve water quality, and boost timber production in the region.
This effort is part of the Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership, a collaboration between the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Forest Service. The program works with local partners and private landowners to manage forests across boundaries.
“Wildfires have no boundaries, and neither should our prevention work,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz.
In addition to Alabama, projects were announced in Colorado and Wyoming, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon. The $8 million in new funding adds to $32 million already invested in 24 ongoing projects across the country.
USDA leaders said the Alabama project reflects a continued commitment to protect natural resources while supporting timber production and rural economies.
