Virginia has announced more than $52 million in federal funding to support recovery projects across Southwest and Western Virginia, including forests and outdoor recreation infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene.

Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the funding Tuesday, October 27, through Good Neighbor Agreements with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.

The agreements involve the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Virginia's Department of Forestry and Department of Conservation and Recreation, and cover projects over a ten-year period extending to 2036.

Trail restoration is a major priority

An estimated $13.9 million is designated for recreational infrastructure recovery, including restoration, rebuilding or relocation of approximately 400 miles of trails and related facilities.

Work may include removing hazardous trees, improving drainage, controlling erosion, and repairing roads, bridges and trailheads.

Grayson Highlands State Park is among the places identified for recovery work, along with Douthat State Park farther north.

Helping forests recover

The state announcement also outlines $15.5 million for native forest vegetation regeneration, including planting and nursery work focused on species such as oak, chestnut, red spruce and several pines.

Other proposed work includes wildfire hazard mitigation and prescribed burns, watershed improvements, and efforts to control invasive species.

The funding is intended to address both visible storm damage and longer-term ecological consequences.

What this means for outdoor visitors

For residents and visitors who enjoy hiking, camping and the region's public lands, the investment offers a long-term route toward safer trails and restored forest landscapes.

However, the announcement is a funding commitment and program plan, not a declaration that every affected trail is open or repaired.

Check current park and national forest alerts before traveling, particularly where storm-damaged roads or trails are involved.

The agreements underscore how recovery in the Appalachian Highlands will continue well beyond a single season.