Disaster Recovery - George Washington and Jefferson National Forest
In recent years, the USDA Forest Service has fulfilled its critical role in disaster response through strategic partnerships with States, Tribes, and counties to support affected communities. Recent hurricanes and wildfires have resulted in billions of dollars in damage to infrastructure and businesses, while also devastating millions of acres of National Forest System lands across multiple states. These disasters directly threaten the ecological services that families and rural communities depend on from our nation’s forests.
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest was severely damaged in September 2024 by Hurricane Helene. In December 2024, congress enacted the American Relief Act, creating a funding avenue for the restoration and repair of critical infrastructures like the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The Forest Service will continue to engage with place-based collaboratives in planning and implementation of recovery efforts.
Virginia Creeper Trail Recovery
Sections of the 34 mile Virginia Creeper Trail on the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area were impacted by Hurricane Helene, causing some closures. The Forest Service is exploring opportunities for restoration and recovery.
Wildfire and Prescribed Burning
Fire in the right place at the right time helps maintain healthy forests, communities and watersheds. Prescribed burns are the safest way to return fire to the ecosystem.
Timber Salvage Program
Disaster recovery from events like Hurricane Helene require the prompt removal of damaged timber to avoid deterioration, the spread of insects, and to protect resource values.