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The Biden-Harris administration is moving forward with a comprehensive approach to bolstering forest communities, as outlined in a recent report released by the Departments of the Interior, Agriculture, and Commerce. This initiative aims to promote economic development, create jobs in the sustainable forest product sector, and support resilient forests in response to Climate Change challenges and rural community needs. The report builds upon President Biden’s Executive Order on Strengthening the Nation’s Forests, Communities, and Local Economies (E.O. 14072) signed on Earth Day 2022.

As part of Climate Week, the administration is showcasing its commitment to addressing the climate crisis by focusing on enhancing economic opportunities in forest-dependent communities. Through various legislative initiatives and funding sources, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act, and Great American Outdoors Act, the administration is investing in wildfire risk reduction, innovative forest products, forest restoration, outdoor recreation, and research and development programs. Collaborative efforts across federal agencies are recommended to ensure resources and services reach rural communities more effectively and promote economic resilience.

The report highlights the importance of outdoor recreation and wood product innovations in supporting local communities and calls for improved delivery of forest benefits to rural areas. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the need to enhance the impact of these opportunities for rural communities. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo underscored the vital role of public lands in driving economic growth and promoting sustainable forest practices.

Key recommendations in the report include fostering community resilience, connecting communities with economic development support, adapting public recreation facilities to Climate Change impacts, investing in wildfire risk reduction, promoting Tribal co-stewardship, enhancing workforce training opportunities in the forest products sector, and exploring housing initiatives using sustainable materials. The Administration’s Rural Partners Network is also facilitating all-of-government programs to help rural communities access resources, funding, and support for long-term economic stability.

Overall, the report underscores the importance of collaboration, Innovation, and Sustainability in building thriving forest communities and ensuring equitable access to economic opportunities for all. By implementing these recommendations, the Biden-Harris administration is taking significant steps towards enhancing the resilience and prosperity of rural forest-dependent communities.

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