Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2023

Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2023

This bill provides support for the collection and maintenance of native seeds and production of tree seedlings.

First, the bill expands the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to allow the Forest Service to enter into contracts, grants, or agreements with state forestry agencies, institutions of higher education, and other entities for the (1) collection and maintenance of native seeds, including material from managed seed orchards; and (2) production of seedlings for revegetation.

Second, the bill modifies requirements for forest landscape restoration proposals for funding under the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program. Specifically, the bill adds institutions of higher education to the list of entities that may provide employment or training opportunities under a proposal and allows the employment or training opportunities to include the collection and maintenance of native seeds for revegetation or the production of seedlings.

Bill 118 HR 5015, also known as the Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2023, aims to promote the restoration of habitats through the planting of native seedlings. The bill focuses on supporting projects that enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem health, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Under this legislation, the Department of Agriculture would establish a grant program to provide funding for the purchase and planting of native seedlings for habitat restoration projects. These projects would be carried out in collaboration with local communities, non-profit organizations, and government agencies to ensure the success and sustainability of the restoration efforts.

The bill also emphasizes the importance of using locally sourced native seedlings to ensure genetic diversity and resilience in restored habitats. Additionally, it encourages the use of sustainable practices in planting and maintaining these seedlings to promote long-term habitat health and viability. Overall, the Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act of 2023 seeks to support and promote the restoration of habitats through the strategic planting of native seedlings, ultimately contributing to the conservation and preservation of our natural environment.