The US Forest Service has announced it is issuing more than $232 million through the agency's Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program in 2024.
SRS includes nearly $63 million in investments to support public schools and roads in the Pacific Northwest Region that encompasses the states of Oregon and Washington.
Pacific Northwest Regional Forester Jacqueline Buchanan said the region is home to some of the most iconic national forests in the country and the SRS program ensures these public lands continue to benefit surrounding communities. She said these funds are vital for rural counties that rely on stewardship of national forests.
Oregon will receive more than $47.7 million in SRS payments, which is the highest amount among all states. In southwest Oregon, Douglas County will receive about $6.67 million while Jackson County will receive more than $1.46 million and Josephine County will get over $950,000.
These funds will provide critical support for schools, roads and other essential services in rural communities across the Pacific Northwest that are home to national forests.
Over the past 10 years, the Forest Service has distributed $2.4 billion through the Secure Rural School program nationwide. The agency retains some of the funding to support projects that improve forest conditions and support jobs in rural communities, with input from local resource advisory committees.
