GROUSE Act of 2026

The GROUSE Act of 2026 establishes a new federal program to financially support private landowners in restoring habitats for upland wildlife species. Under this initiative, eligible landowners can receive payments covering 75 percent of the costs associated with planting native trees, shrubs, and other vegetation on forest land that has been recently logged or affected by natural disasters. To qualify, the land must be at least 10 acres, and payments are limited to the lesser of 5 percent of the total eligible land or 250 acres per owner. Contracts for these restoration activities will last up to five years and require a habitat plan developed with the help of wildlife experts or foresters.