The Forest Service just announced that it will be distributing $238 million to counties under the Secure Rural Schools program, with California’s counties set to receive nearly $30 million from that pot (up from almost $25 million last year). The program was reauthorized for two years as part of the bipartisan infrastructure law.

“The Secure Rural Schools program is one of many ways USDA supports rural communities and provides a consistent source of funding in areas near national forests,” Forest Service Chief Randy Moore said. “In addition to funding for schools and counties, the program also reimburses counties for emergency services on national forests and is instrumental in the development of community wildfire protection plans.”

The Forest Service retains a portion of Secure Rural Schools program funds to support projects that improve forest conditions and support jobs in rural communities. Resource advisory committees, made up of residents representing varied interests and areas of expertise, review and recommend projects that meet their local needs.

A full breakdown of payments can be accessed here.