“This project is an excellent example of multiple public and private interests collaborating for the greater good of rural communities,” said Higgins. “Not only will the project create and sustain jobs in an underserved area, it will assist in the clearing of forest fuels to help avoid potentially catastrophic wildfires.” USDA Rural Development’s RBEG funds are available to rural communities, non-profit corporations and tribes for projects that strengthen the economic conditions of rural areas through business and job development and training as well as project planning. The CHIPS Project will use this grant to fund job training and work experience projects, purchase equipment and assist in the creation of a business selling wood chips and mulch.  “Residents of West Point understand the importance of keeping our forests healthy, and the dangers of accumulated forest undergrowth,” Lungren said. “This funding will open new opportunities for forest products that will lead to greater economic security. Through this process, West Point has provided an excellent example to the rest of the country of how a community working together can adapt to changing circumstances.” 

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development has invested over $76 billion since the beginning of the Bush Administration to provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. As a result, over 1.5 million jobs have been created or saved through these investments. For further information on rural programs is available at one of California’s 25 local USDA Rural Development offices or by visiting www.rurdev.usda.gov/ca.