Between recreation and timber sales, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest generates millions of dollars each year.
A portion of the money goes to counties within the forest boundaries. It’s part of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act.
While some counties elect to put that money towards schools or roads, others choose to put that money back into the National Forest locally.
Over the last several years, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has accrued almost $670,000.
“In past projects we say wildlife opening maintenance work. We saw stream restoration activity as well as boat landing improvements, and ATV/UTV trail connector projects, so a wide variety,” said Adam Felts, Special Authorities Program Manager for the forest.
The projects do need to meet certain requirements.
Half the projects have to involve roads or streams and watersheds.
Felts said people have already been reaching out with questions and possible ideas.
Anyone considering a proposal is encouraged to reach out to their local forest office before submitting an idea to make sure it meets the requirements.
“It’s definitely important to re-invest and make sure we’re being sustainable in our natural resource management on the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest,” said Felts. “I think projects like these that re-invest money and activities as well as community involvement into the National Forest build on that sustainability model and that of being stewards of the land.”
You can find an application here.
Proposals are due by November 12th after which they’ll be reviewed by a new Northern Wisconsin Resource Advisory Committee.
The Forest Supervisor gets final approval on the projects.