The Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP), administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), helps non-industrial private forestland owners recover from natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, windstorms, ice storms, floods, and other qualifying events. EFRP provides funding and technical support for approved conservation practices that restore forest health, mitigate further damage, and promote sustainable forest management.

Program Features:

• Covered Practices:
  • Removing debris from forestland.
  • Site preparation for natural regeneration or tree planting.
  • Tree planting and forest stand improvement.
  • Restoring forestland roads and stream crossings.
  • Implementing other practices that mitigate disaster impact and promote forest recovery.
• Payment Rates: EFRP provides cost-share assistance of up to 75% of the cost of approved conservation practices.
• Funding: The availability of EFRP funds is subject to annual appropriations and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding priorities may be established based on the severity of the disaster and the extent of the damage.

Additional EFRP Benefits:

• Environmental Restoration: EFRP supports the restoration of forest health and productivity, enhancing ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water quality, and wildlife habitat.
• Sustainable Forest Management: By encouraging the implementation of best management practices, EFRP promotes the long-term sustainability and resilience of forestlands.
• Economic Stability: EFRP helps forestland owners recover from the financial impact of natural disasters, supporting the economic stability of rural communities.

How to Enroll: To apply for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program, forestland owners must submit a request for assistance to their local FSA office. The application process includes an assessment of the damage, documentation of the disaster impact, and a description of the proposed conservation measures. Detailed enrollment instructions and deadlines are available through the local FSA office or the official USDA website.

Eligibility: Eligible applicants include owners of non-industrial private forestland that has suffered damage due to natural disasters. The damage must significantly impair the land’s productivity or pose a threat to forest health.