Jobs in the Woods Act

This bill, known as the "Jobs in the Woods Act," requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a competitive grant program within one year of enactment. The program aims to address critical forestry workforce development needs by funding career pathway training programs in eligible areas. Grants will be awarded for periods of up to four years, with individual grant amounts ranging from a minimum of $500,000 to a maximum of $2,000,000. Eligible entities, including nonprofit organizations, states, Indian Tribes, local governments, and institutions of higher education, must submit applications demonstrating their capacity, regional need, projected reach, and plans for sustainability and implementation. Priority will be given to applicants who propose activities to address an aging workforce and youth migration , partner with secondary, vocational, or junior/community colleges, and demonstrate the ability to assist with workforce placement and hiring. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to carry out this program.