News in brief:
– Biden-Harris administration has announced allocating $20 million to support Indigenous communities in accessing emerging climate markets, fostering resilience and economic growth.
– This funding reflects a significant increase in collaborative efforts between USDA Forest Service and Tribes, aiming to advance environmental justice and drive climate action.
The Biden-Harris Administration has allocated $20 million to support federally recognised Tribes and Alaska Native corporations and villages in bolstering climate resilience and economic opportunities.
This investment, part of President Bidenâs broader Investing in America agenda, aims to empower Indigenous communities to tap into emerging private markets for various environmental initiatives.
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small emphasised the importance of Tribal practices in fostering resilient forests and land management. This funding, made available through President Bidenâs Inflation Reduction Act, seeks to broaden access to markets that address the pressing climate crisis, uphold Indigenous Knowledge, and boost local economies.
Substantial growth and policy adjustments
Deputy Secretary Torres Small talked about the investment during a meeting of the National Congress of American Indians, underlining the administration’s commitment to work with Tribal governments and communities. This initiative aligns with President Biden’s broader agenda to stimulate economic growth and foster a clean energy economy nationwide.
The investment reflects a substantial increase in collaborative efforts between the USDA Forest Service and Tribes, with fiscal year 2023 witnessing over 120 co-stewardship agreements, representing a $68 million investment. Notably, policy adjustments have been made to recognize the significance of Indigenous Knowledge and enhance Tribes’ access to USDA programs.
Furthermore, this announcement aligns with President Bidenâs Justice40 Initiative, aiming to ensure that 40% of the benefits of Federal climate and clean energy investments reach disadvantaged communities, including all Federally Recognized Tribes and Tribal entities.
How to apply
Interested parties can submit proposals for this grant opportunity until Aug. 21, 2024, through grants.gov. These grants supplement existing agreements, including a $2 million direct award to the National Indian Carbon Coalition and a $13 million agreement with the Denali Commission. For more on Forest Service grant opportunities, visit the landowner support page. For more on how the Forest Service works with states, Tribes, and communities, visit the Forest Service private landowners page.
Ultimately, these funds are geared towards supporting participation in emerging private markets for climate mitigation and forest resilience. Activities may include developing forest management plans, reforestation efforts, establishing demonstration sites, and safeguarding biodiversity.
