WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced a major $80 million investment through Wood Innovation Grants to support domestic wood product manufacturing, expand active forest management, and advance energy technologies in timber-producing communities.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said the funding aligns with President Trump’s “America First” strategy, highlighting the dual focus on economic growth and forest resilience. “Proper forest use and management lowers our reliance on foreign products and is inherently aligned with President Trump’s America First agenda,” Rollins stated. “We’re investing in innovation that ensures a steady, sustainable supply of American wood that not only supports jobs and fuels economies, it protects the people and communities we serve.”
The initiative builds on the administration’s earlier $200 million timber investment in May and directives issued by Secretary Rollins to streamline forest project approvals and reduce regulatory barriers. The grants are part of a broader effort to reduce wildfire risks and enhance rural economic development by harnessing America’s natural resources responsibly.
By promoting cutting-edge wood technologies and sustainable forestry practices, the USDA aims to foster long-term forest health and economic vitality in rural communities that rely heavily on timber and wood product industries.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.