The U.S. Forest Service is investing over $2 million in deferred maintenance projects in the Payette National Forest (Idaho) this year through funds authorized by the Great American Outdoors Act.
As per a report, the funds will be split into four deferred maintenance projects for the fiscal year 2022.
The four projects include phase one of the project to renovate campgrounds in the west of the forest, which includes Huckleberry and Cabin Creek campgrounds, as well as the Horse Cabin Flat site, and repairing bridges on the Payette National Forest, including the Cottonwood, Weiser, and Four Bit road bridges.
It also calls for deferred maintenance projects on 50 miles of trails in the East Fork Trail Complex to improve visitor access, and chip sealing and leveling along the South Fork of the Salmon River Road, which forest officials said will help protect chinook salmon habitat.
Overall, the projects are designed to enhance accessibility to the forest and protect watersheds and wildlife habitat, Payette National Forest officials said.
In 2021 in 2021, the Great American Outdoors Act provided funding for nine projects within the Payette National Forest, including trail maintenance, bridge and road repairs, and upgrades to campgrounds.
The Payette National Forest, which includes Hells Canyon, is situated approximately 2.3 million acres of forest and stretches across Valley, Adams, Idaho, and Washington counties.
Idahoans and visitors utilize Payette National Forest for various activities, including hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling, and many more.
Former President Donald Trump signed the Great American Outdoors Act into law in 2020 after the U.S. Congress passed it.
The act provides up to $9.5 billion over five years to address deferred maintenance through the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund, where the money for the Payette National Forest projects comes from.
This story originally appeared on Idaho Capital Sun.
The plan to invest in Payette National Forest is fantastic news! It’s all about preserving the natural beauty and making sure we can all have a blast exploring the great outdoors. With these funds, we’re in for better trails, camping spots, and wildlife habitats. Let’s go on that adventure!
Exciting news – the Great American Outdoors Act is boosting Payette National Forest in Idaho, making it more amazing for us to explore while keeping nature safe and sound.