Federal bill would launch white oak restoration across U.S. public and private lands

What does this do?

HR 2405 directs the USDA and Department of the Interior to jointly restore white oak trees across the country through 10 pilot projects on national forests and Interior-managed lands. A voluntary coalition of federal, state, tribal, and private groups would coordinate efforts and recommend policy changes. USDA would also develop a national strategy to expand nursery seedling capacity, and research partnerships with universities would study disease resistance, drought tolerance, and restoration on former mine sites.

Who does it affect?

Forest landowners, farmers, timber producers, tribal nations, state forestry agencies, and wildlife conservationists are the primary participants and partners. Residents near national forests and public lands across much of the eastern United States could see long-term changes to local forests.

Why does it matter?

White oak supports industries including furniture, flooring, and barrel production for whiskey and wine, and its decline raises concerns for both ecosystems and supply chains. Most programs under the bill would expire seven years after enactment.

What does it cost, and who pays?

A new non-regulatory grant program would direct money to landowners and partners for restoration work, managed in cooperation with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. No specific funding amount is stated in the summary.

Where does it stand?