The USDA Forest Service has awarded Townsend $309,150 to reduce wildfire risks through its “Mitigation Plan for Optimizing Fuel Breaks in High-Risk Areas.” This grant is part of a larger $200 million investment in 58 projects across 22 states and two tribes. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized putting resources in local hands to protect communities and support science-based forest management.

Townsend was hit by a severe derecho in 2019, which toppled about 75% of its trees and blocked roads. Townsend still faces issues with fallen trees and increased risk of forest fires. The new project aims to create and maintain fuel breaks along local roadways.

Townsend Highway Superintendent Bob Habeck worked for years to secure this grant. Townsend is the only Wisconsin town to receive it this year and it was the highest award in the country.