Federal program would pay landowners to restore bird habitat on logged forests

What does this do?

The GROUSE Act would create a federal program paying private forest landowners to restore wildlife habitat on recently logged, actively logged, or disaster-damaged land. The government would cover 75 percent of costs to plant native trees, shrubs, and vegetation that supports upland birds like grouse and quail. Contracts last up to five years and require a habitat restoration plan developed with a wildlife biologist or forester.

Who does it affect?

The program applies to small and mid-sized private, non-industrial forest landowners, particularly in rural areas. Hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservation groups focused on upland bird populations would also be affected.

Why does it matter?

Upland bird and wildlife populations in logged or disaster-affected forests could increase as native vegetation is restored under government-funded contracts. The program would be administered through the USDA within the existing framework of the Food Security Act of 1985.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Govt covers 75% of restoration costs
• Max 250 acres or 5% of eligible land
• Minimum parcel size is 10 acres

Where does it stand?