News - Local
Udall seeks emergency funds to manage beetle kill
Posted: May 26, 2010 1:24 PM by Bea Karnes, News First 5
Updated: May 26, 2010 1:24 PM
Colorado Sen. Mark Udall is seeking emergency funds to remove hazardous trees killed by bark beetles in national parks and forests.
He is proposing an amendment to the Senate emergency supplemental appropriations bill that would award the U.S. Forest Service $42 million and the National Park Service $8 million.
Udall said Wednesday that much of the funds could go to Colorado. Millions of acres of pines in the West have been infested by the beetle.
As dead pines litter forests, the risk of fire increases. Removal efforts would focus mainly on areas near campgrounds, homes and reservoir watersheds.
Udall says he hopes the money would be available within months, if approved.
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