Jobs in the Woods Act

New rural forestry job training grants

Within one year of enactment, USDA would set up a competitive grant program for forestry job training. Nonprofits, states, tribes, local governments, and colleges could apply for $500,000–$2,000,000 grants lasting up to 4 years. Training would focus on forestry operations and forest products. Projects must serve areas that are nonmetropolitan low‑income, have broadband or a plan for it, and have 50,000 people or fewer. USDA would favor plans that address an aging workforce, partner with schools or community colleges, and help place trainees into jobs. Congress would authorize $10 million a year for 2026–2030.