Missouri can use $50 million the Biden administration is making available to make forests healthier and support rural economies. Three levels of funding will support forest management projects that improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk. Lew McCreery of the US Forest Service tells Missourinet that a number of companies can apply for funding.
“Eligibility is really broad,” McCreery said. “State agencies, tribes, local governments, for-profit corporations, nonprofit organizations, and special districts such as conservation districts or school districts.”
The funding made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure bill is intended to create new markets for wood products.
McCreery says innovation is key.
“If there is interest, if a company believes it is considering an innovative use of a forest resource for economic gain, a new product or an expansion of an existing product, it is entitled,” McCreery said.
What project examples is McCreery talking about?
“Let’s say there’s an existing sawmill out there that currently only produces green lumber,” McCreery said. “One of our grants could help them add one or more kilns to their facility that would allow them to produce kiln-dried lumber, which is a value-added product. You would get more for kiln-dried lumber than green lumber.”
Proposals are sought for the construction of low-carbon buildings as a renewable energy source, as well as for manufacturing and processing products.
To apply and for more information, visit the US Forest Service website.
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