WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Justice introduced the Growing and Restoring Operational Upland Species Ecosystems (GROUSE) Act of 2026. This bill would establish a USDA program to reimburse forest landowners when they plant native vegetation beneficial to upland wildlife on commercially logged forestland.
“This bill builds on the Ruffed Grouse and Wildlife Restoration Program I launched in 2024 as Governor of West Virginia. As a lifelong hunter and angler, this is just common sense and a major win for investing in conservation and showcasing West Virginia’s natural resources. By improving wildlife habitats, we can strengthen populations of everything from grouse to deer and beyond, while also creating a real economic impact for West Virginians, Americans, and our outdoors communities,” said Senator Jim Justice.
BACKGROUND:
- The GROUSE Act would reimburse forest landowners 75% of the costs of habitat restoration activities.
- Incentivizes the establishment of vegetation, including native soft-mast trees and shrubs, and other vegetation in early successional habitats.
- Provides landowners with technical assistance on habitat plans from federal, state, private, and NGO wildlife biologists or foresters.
- Allows nonindustrial forest landowners the opportunity to replant habitat after commercial logging and natural disasters.
- While Governor, Senator Justice launched the West Virginia Ruffed Grouse and Wildlife Restoration program.
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