NEW ENGLAND FORESTRY FOUNDATION • March 26, 2025
Maine forest landowners are voicing serious concerns that losing federal support—such as funding from the USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities program—could disrupt ongoing improvements in forest management and pose long-term challenges for one of the state’s most vital industries. The ripple effects wouldn’t stop with landowners. Maine’s loggers, foresters, truckers, mills, and construction-related businesses would all feel the impact. The program is directly supporting workforce training and capacity-building at a time when these sectors are struggling to attract and retain skilled workers. Between $11 million and $12 million is dedicated to reimbursing Maine companies for forestry work.