This funding will build on a previous successful program for temporary bridges used throughout maine

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service awarded $499,500 to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry on September 3, 2025, under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Temporary Bridge Program (CFDA 10.721). This Project Grant will procure two steel bridges and support the continued deployment of timber bridge structures utilized during timber harvesting operations throughout Maine. The program expands from a cost-share model to a rent-to-own arrangement, enabling Maine loggers and forest operators to access temporary water crossing infrastructure while protecting stream ecosystems and water quality from timber harvesting equipment impacts.

The award builds upon a previously successful temporary bridge program in Maine and will provide portable skidder bridges and related temporary crossing structures available to timber producers through rental or rent-to-own arrangements. By reducing operational barriers and minimizing stream bed disturbance during forest management activities on both federal and non-federal lands, this funding supports environmentally responsible timber production and rural economic development across Maine's forestry sector. The project is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2029.

This award will procure two steel bridges as well as support the continued successful use of timber bridge structures used during timber harvesting operations. This bridge program enables maine loggers to protect streams and water quality from timber harvesting equipment while continuing to harvest timber in maine s forests. This award will expand the program from a cost share to a rent to own program.