Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) and Chuck Edwards (NC-11) introduced the Post-Disaster Reforestation and Restoration Act. This bipartisan legislation would help communities impacted by natural disasters – including wildfires and floods – recover and rebuild more resilient to future threats through reforestation and restoration efforts. Specifically, the legislation would require the Department of Interior, in coordination with states, local governments, tribes, and colleges to identify critical lands in need of rehabilitation after natural disasters and support projects through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. 

Over 3 million Coloradans – more than 50% of the state’s population – live in a moderate to high risk area for wildfires. As wildfires become increasingly common, it is crucial to implement post-disaster recovery strategies, including reforestation and restoration efforts. This not only helps restore damaged ecosystems but also protects communities from future disasters. 

“As wildfires become a year-round threat, prioritizing post-disaster recovery is more important than ever,” said Pettersen. “By investing in rehabilitation after wildfires and other natural disasters, we can ensure that our communities not only recover but also rebuild in a way that enhances their resilience against future disasters. I thank Congressman Edwards for his partnership on this bipartisan legislation and will keep working to ensure we are better prepared for wildfires and other threats for generations to come.”

“Western North Carolina is home to the Pisgah National Forest, much of which was devastated by Hurricane Helene. The work to restore vast swaths of forest land will be difficult but must be done as quickly as possible to mitigate the risk of wildfire and other negative effects if left unaddressed,” said Edwards. “That is why I am co-leading the Post-Disaster Reforestation and Restoration Act, which requires the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service to identify priority areas and support targeted projects for reforestation and restoration.”

The Post-Disaster Reforestation and Restoration Act is endorsed by the following organizations: The Nature Conservancy, American Forests, National Association of Counties, and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. 

Bill text is available HERE.