USAID’s Closure Threatens Global Reforestation & Conservation

The shutdown of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is raising alarms worldwide, particularly in environmental conservation. In South America, USAID has played a key role in protecting the Amazon rainforest, supporting Indigenous communities, and funding coca crop alternatives to reduce deforestation. The abrupt halt in funding could slow critical reforestation projects and weaken global efforts to combat deforestation.

How do you think conservation efforts can stay resilient despite shifting political landscapes? 

👉👉 Read more in The Associated Press

$300M for Reforesting Mined-Out Areas in Guyana

Guyana’s 2025 budget allocates $300 million for reforestation in Mahdia, a region heavily impacted by mining. Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat outlined plans for land reclamation and tree planting, building on last year’s successes in Region 10 and Bisaruni. With over 2,000 trees already planted and partnerships to improve fire management, the initiative reflects Guyana’s commitment to tackling climate challenges.

What types of trees do you think are best for restoring ecosystems in mined-out areas?

👉👉 Read more in Guyana Chronicle

Florida Timber Recovery Block Grant Closes, Reforestation Still a Priority

The Florida Timber Recovery Block Grant, which provided financial aid to timber producers affected by Hurricane Michael, has officially closed. Eligible producers who received payments for damaged timber were required to commit to reforestation through state or federal programs, natural regeneration, or private funding. While the grant is no longer accepting applications, reforestation remains crucial for restoring Florida’s forests.

How do you think reforestation efforts should be funded after natural disasters?

👉👉 Read more on Florida Disaster.org

$1.6M in Research Grants for Mine Reclamation & Critical Minerals Recovery   

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is offering $1.6 million in grants for research on reclaiming mined land and extracting critical minerals from coal waste. Eligible institutions can apply for up to $200,000 by March 21, 2025, to develop science-based solutions for reforestation, farmland protection, and environmental restoration.  

What would it take to accelerate these restoration efforts and get forests growing faster?

👉👉 Read more from the US Department of Interior

Strengthening Reforestation & Livelihoods in Palawan’s VAMR   

Forest Foundation Philippines has partnered with Dynamiq Enterprise Solution Inc. to enhance reforestation and agroforestry efforts in the Victoria Anepahan Mountain Range (VAMR), a crucial biodiversity area in Palawan. Through this collaboration, Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations (IPOs) will receive additional tools and seedlings to restore forests and develop sustainable livelihoods.  

How can corporate partnerships further accelerate forest restoration?

👉👉 Read more from the Forest Foundation