reforestation
(4) Reforestation requirements.— (A) Definitions .— In this paragraph: (i) Natural regeneration.— (I) In general .— The term “natural regeneration” means the establishment of a tree or tree age class from natural seeding, sprouting, or suckering in accordance with the management objectives of an applicable land management plan. (II) Inclusion .— The term “natural regeneration” may include any site preparation activity to enhance the success of regeneration to the desired species composition and structure. (ii) Priority land .— The term “priority land” means National Forest System land that, due to an unplanned event— (I) does not meet the conditions for appropriate forest cover described in paragraph (1); (II) requires reforestation to meet the objectives of an applicable land management plan; and (III) is unlikely to experience natural regeneration without assistance. (iii) Reforestation .— The term “reforestation” means the act of renewing tree cover, taking into consideration species composition and resilience, by establishing young trees through— (I) natural regeneration; (II) natural regeneration with site preparation; or (III) planting or direct seeding. (iv) Secretary .— The term “Secretary” means the Secretary, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service. (v) Unplanned event.— (I) In general .— The term “unplanned event” means any unplanned disturbance that— (aa) disrupts ecosystem or forest structure or composition; or (bb) changes resources, substrate availability, or the physical environment. (II) Inclusions .— The term “unplanned event” may include— (aa) a wildfire; (bb) an infestation of insects or disease; (cc) a weather event; and (dd) animal damage. (B) Requirement .— Each reforestation activity under this section shall be carried out in accordance with applicable Forest Service management practices and definitions, including definitions relating to silvicultural practices and forest management. (C) Reforestation priority.— (i) In general .— In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall give priority to projects on the priority list described in clause (ii). (ii) Priority list.— (I) In general .— The Secretary shall, based on recommendations from regional foresters, create a priority list of reforestation projects that— (aa) primarily take place on priority land; (bb) promote effective reforestation following unplanned events; and (cc) may include activities to ensure adequate and appropriate seed availability. (II) Ranking .— The Secretary shall rank projects on the priority list under subclause (I) based on— (aa) documentation of an effective reforestation project plan; (bb) the ability to measure the progress and success of the project; and (cc) the ability of a project to provide benefits relating to forest function and health, soil health and productivity, wildlife habitat, improved air and water quality, carbon sequestration potential, resilience, job creation, and enhanced recreational opportunities.