Road maintenance in US forests

The US Department of Agriculture will spend US$ 228 million of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding for the maintenance and decommissioning of roads in National Forests.

Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack said 106 projects across Forest Service land in 31 States would benefit from the programme.

"The rehabilitation of roads will enhance access to land in the National Forests while also improving water quality in forest streams by reducing sediment," said Mr Vilsack. "The 106 projects outlined mean we'll be able to restore natural resources and habitats for fish in areas impacted by the deterioration and erosion of road surfaces."

The programme includes the maintenance of roads, bridges and other vehicle areas and the decommissioning of unauthorised roads to restore land to its more natural state.