CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,178,500 from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reforest abandoned mine lands in Appalachia by leveraging private capital and carbon market revenues.

“Taking advantage of opportunities to restore forests, while simultaneously improving the ecosystems of our wildlife are important steps to keeping West Virginia wild and wonderful for years to come. I’m thankful for USDA’s support, which will go a long way in helping to maintain the beauty of our state and our climate,” Senator Capito said.

“We have a responsibility to care for our wild and wonderful lands across Appalachia, and I am pleased the USDA is investing in efforts to reforest abandoned mine lands across West Virginia. These efforts will also help address the environmental impact of our abandoned mine lands and support wildlife revitalization,” Senator Manchin said. “Utilizing our abandoned mine lands is crucial, and I’ll continue to advocate for funding to support these efforts.” 

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