The White House announced the creation Wednesday of the American Climate Corps to train 20,000 young adults for work in clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience. At the same time, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the Forest Corps, operating through the U.S. Forest Service, would be the first major interagency partnership with the Climate Corps.
“USDA is proud to be part of this effort through the Forest Corps … and will support efforts to address the wildfire crisis,” said Vilsack on social media.
Some 80 young adults, ages 18 to 26, will join the Forest Corps in summer 2024 to work on wildfire prevention, reforestation, and other projects as part of the Forest Service’s long-term wildfire strategy. Participants will receive compensation equivalent to $15 an hour, including lodging, transportation, a living allowance, and health benefits.
President Biden created the Climate Corps by executive action. It was proposed, but later removed, as part of the 2022 climate, healthcare, and tax law. The new program had a precursor in the Civilian Conservation Corps that was part of the New Deal, reported the Associated Press.