(a) In generalAction plans shall be implemented, insofar as practicable, to upgrade existing industries to use natural resources more efficiently and to expand the economic base of rural communities so as to alleviate or reduce their dependence on National Forest System land resources.
(b) AssistanceTo implement action plans, the Secretary may make grants and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts to provide necessary technical and related assistance. Such grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts may be with the affected rural community, State and local governments, universities, corporations, and other persons.
(c) LimitationThe Federal contribution to the overall implementation of an action plan shall not exceed 80 percent of the total cost of the plan, including administrative and other costs. In calculating the Federal contribution, the Secretary shall take into account the fair market value of equipment, personnel, and services provided.
(d) Available authorityThe Secretary may use the Secretary’s authority under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2101 et seq.) and other Federal, State, and local governmental authorities in implementing action plans.
(e) Consistency with forest plansThe implementation of action plans shall be consistent with land and resource management plans.
(Pub. L. 101–624, title XXIII, § 2376, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4048; Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, § 1000(a)(3) [title III, § 345(d)], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1535, 1501A–204.)
Editorial Notes
References in TextThe Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, referred to in subsec. (d), is Pub. L. 95–313, July 1, 1978, 92 Stat. 365, which is classified principally to chapter 41 (§ 2101 et seq.) of Title 16, Conservation. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2101 of Title 16 and Tables.
Amendments1999—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–113 substituted “natural resources” for “forest resources” and “National Forest System land resources” for “national forest resources”.