USDA Supports Timber Operations with $115 Million Loans

By Blake Jackson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has announced $115.2 million in loans for projects across eight states through the Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP). The program ensures sawmills and wood processing facilities receive funding to establish, reopen, expand, or improve their operations. Wisconsin recipients include Delaneys Trees and Tires, LLC in Warrens and Timber Professionals Cooperative Enterprises (TPCE) in Tilleda.

Agriculture Rural Development Administrator J.R. Claeys said, “We cannot allow wildfires to devastate and destroy our rural communities. That’s why the USDA is taking this bold action to stop the destruction of our forestlands by investing in sawmills and wood processing facilities that support sustainable timber harvesting.” Claeys added that the investment strengthens local businesses, drives rural prosperity, and supports jobs.

State Director Andrew C. Iverson emphasized, “USDA is committed to timber industry innovations that improve forest health and reduce wildfire threats while creating good-paying jobs for people in rural, forest-dependent communities in Wisconsin.”

Delaneys Trees and Tires is receiving a $1.66 million loan to expand timber processing by purchasing equipment and real estate, creating three new jobs and preserving 12 existing ones. TPCE is receiving $800,000 to reopen a sawmill in Shawano County, purchase land and equipment, improve wood chip manufacturing, and expand production of higher-value products, creating six jobs.

The TPEP program targets nine states: California, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Nevada, Oklahoma, Virginia, and Wisconsin. It supports sustainable timber production, reduces wildfire risk, and strengthens rural economies.

USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz said, “The American forest products industry is critical to maintaining the health of the nation’s forests. TPEP helps maintain rural jobs, processing facilities, and outlets for wood from national forests.”

This initiative, led jointly by USDA Rural Development and the Forest Service, provides critical funding to improve sawmill operations, support local economies, and remove dangerous fuel from forestlands to protect communities.

Photo Credit: usda