§6613 Rural Natural Resources and Economic Diversification Action Teams

Summary

Economically disadvantaged rural communities can ask the Secretary for help finding ways to diversify and improve their local economies. When asked, the Secretary may set up a rural natural resources and economic diversification action team to write an action plan. The plan must look for new economic opportunities tied to National Forest System land, including uses of value-added products and services. Each team will be led by a Forest Service employee and can include people from USDA, other federal or state agencies, universities, companies, nonprofits, or individuals. The Secretary may hire or work with others as needed to prepare the plans. The Secretary must make sure the same area does not get two similar grants within any continuous five-year period: one under this program and one under a “designated rural development program.” After checking financial and economic feasibility, the Secretary will approve and carry out action plans that meet the program’s goals under section 6614. A “designated rural development program” means a program under sections 1924(b), 1926(a), or 1932(e) of this title with funds available during the fiscal year.