USDA Puts $40 Million Into Forest Restoration

$40 million federal dollars will go toward 20 different forest and water shed restoration projects.

USDA officials say the goal is to improve forest health, protect water and wildlife and provide jobs in rural communities.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, the goal is to increase "the number of acres by 20 percent where we will actively manage our forests to restore their health. This will benefit the environment while increasing our production of forest products to 3 billion board feet annually."

Vilsack says increased forest restoration makes for resilient eco-systems, improved water sheds and wildlife habitat, and reduces hazardous fuels. While no dollars are coming to Wyoming, projects in Montana, Colorado and Idaho made the list.