Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a $115.2 million investment to expand timber production and enhance forest health. This funding will directly benefit eight Western Caucus Members’ districts. Below are their statements on the announcement.

“Today’s timber production expansion is a true win-win, creating jobs in rural America and keeping our forests healthy. Americans have been asking for a practical approach to real economic growth with a lasting impact in rural communities, and the administration is delivering,” said Chair Celeste Maloy.
 
“Timber production is key to our economy here in Wisconsin–generating a $27 billion economic impact. This $115.2 million guarantee, provided through the Timber Production Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program, will support our great timber producers by enabling them to establish, expand, or enhance their operations in Northeast Wisconsin and across the state. I applaud the Department of Agriculture for prioritizing Wisconsin producers and giving them the tools they need to thrive,” said Representative Tony Wied.

“This investment by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is critical for expanding timber production, strengthening domestic wood processing, and reducing wildfire risks in America,” said Representative Tom Tiffany. “The nearly $2.5 million that two Wisconsin businesses are receiving will help boost both statewide jobs and rural businesses.”

“As part of the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to support the American timber industry, the USDA is relying on communities like those in Virginia’s Ninth District to expand domestic timber production. This USDA loan guarantee for more than $7.5 million helps Twain Capital revive an essential industry in Virginia’s Ninth District. America’s working communities are excited to be on board for this important ‘Made in America’ mission,” said Representative H. Morgan Griffith.

“California’s forests are facing a growing crisis, from catastrophic wildfires to overgrown, unhealthy landscapes that threaten our communities and water supply. This investment from the USDA is a step in the right direction, helping to expand responsible timber production while improving forest health and reducing wildfire risk. Active forest management is essential in California, where decades of neglect have left millions of acres vulnerable. I will continue working to ensure our state receives the resources and regulatory flexibility needed to protect our forests, strengthen rural economies, and keep our communities safe,” said Representative Kevin Kiley.

“I’m encouraged to see USDA expanding its investment in the Timber Production Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program for California,” said Representative David Valadao. “This funding will strengthen timber production in California while addressing the urgent need to expand processing capacity in our surrounding forests—an essential step in reducing wildfire risk. By supporting both increased output and proactive forest management, this investment will help protect our communities and make our forests more resilient for the future.”

"The U.S. Department of Agriculture's announcement of a $115.2M investment to support sawmills and wood processing facilities is excellent news," said Representative Russ Fulcher. "Idaho's timber industry will greatly benefit from these investments—helping reduce wildfire risk, providing good-paying jobs, and strengthening domestic wood processing capacity." 
 

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