Grant to implement existing plans through dynamic forest restoration blocks focusing on improving wildlife habitat through OAK regeneration at two state forests

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service awarded $897,972 to The Ruffed Grouse Society under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance program (CFDA 10.664) on September 18, 2025, for a five-year initiative concluding September 17, 2030. The grant funds implementation of dynamic forest restoration activities at two Massachusetts state forests, with primary focus on oak regeneration and wildlife habitat improvement. The Ruffed Grouse Society will execute on-the-ground forest management practices designed to enhance ecological conditions while engaging two adjacent communities in drinking water quality protection efforts and collaborating with a nearby scout camp to advance habitat restoration objectives.

Beyond direct restoration activities at the two state forests, the grant supports facilitation of future implementation strategies across additional state forests to promote landscape-scale resiliency and habitat diversification. This approach aligns with the Cooperative Forestry Assistance program's mandate to support forest management and conservation on nonfederal lands through partnerships with state agencies, nonprofits, and communities. The project reflects the program's emphasis on state forest action plan implementation and habitat management activities that deliver measurable benefits to forest ecosystems and wildlife populations.

Work with two small, adjoining communities to help them better protect drinking water quality as well as a nearby scout camp to improve habitat and OAK regeneration. Facilitate future implementation in other state forests to advance resiliency and habitat diversification at landscape scales.