This project supports the national priorities of enhanced forest productivity, wildfire risk mitigation, and rural economic development

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Region 10 – Alaska Region awarded $500,000 to the Louden Tribal Council on September 26, 2025, under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Temporary Bridge Program (CFDA 10.721). This project grant funds the procurement and deployment of portable skidder bridges and bridge mats to establish or expand a rental program for temporary water crossing structures on tribal and federal lands in Alaska. The equipment will enable sustainable wood harvesting operations by providing seasonal access across streams and wet areas while minimizing stream bed disturbance and supporting worker safety. The grant period extends through December 31, 2027.

The Temporary Bridge Program supports states and federally recognized tribal governments in establishing rental programs—operated under fee-rental, no-cost rental, or rent-to-own models—that supply temporary crossing infrastructure to loggers and contractors engaged in forest management. By providing this equipment, the award directly advances national priorities of enhanced forest productivity, wildfire risk mitigation, and rural economic development in Alaska Native communities.

This project funds a mobile bridge system to provide seasonal access to forested tribal and federal lands in order to expand sustainable wood harvesting operations.