PALMER, Alaska, Dec. 12, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director Julia Hnilicka announced today a $599,415 investment in rural and Tribal communities across Alaska to expand access to a solid waste management training, technical assistance, and infrastructure support for rural Alaskan communities.
“The Biden-Harris Administration invests in rural America, because we know strong communities are rooted in their people,” Secretary Vilsack said. “These investments will build modern infrastructure that will attract employers to the nation’s smallest towns and most remote communities, creating jobs, vibrant Main Streets, and lasting economic growth for the people who live there.”
Three projects in Alaska are receiving funds to build or improve support solid waste management and technical assistance:
Alaska Forum Inc. will use a $158,000 Solid Waste Management Grant to provide hands-on solid waste training to twelve communities working toward Green Star certification which will serve as a model for future program participants. Additionally, rural communities will receive solid waste management training and technical assistance for at least 30 current and future landfill operators through in-person and virtual sessions. Six virtual continuing education courses will also be offered to at least 50 current landfill operators.
Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council received a $175,415 Solid Waste Management Grant to establish a solid waste trial liaison to address landfill concerns in the Yukon River Basin, improving communication and supporting Tribal and city governments. High0risk communities will receive technical assistance for emergency responses, landfill operations, and solid waste management plan development.
Zender Environmental Health and Research Group is receiving a $266,00 Solid Waste Management Grant to provide solid waste management training, improve landfill operations in Tuntutuliak and Akiachak, and support Hooper Bay’s climate resilience efforts. One-on-one assistance will also be offered for waste management, recycling, and education.
These investments are made through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Programs, which help rural communities obtain technical assistance and funding to develop drinking water and waste disposal systems.
Today’s announcement is included in a national release, in which USDA Rural Development is highlighting the investment of $6.3 billion in more than 200 projects in rural and Tribal communities across 44 states to expand access to a clean and reliable electric grid, provide safe drinking water and create good-paying jobs.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and healthcare; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
USDA Rural Development touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. USDA Rural Development is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.
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