The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has renewed its partnership with The Coca-Cola Company in an effort to restore forests, grasslands, and watersheds across the country. The 10-year partnership aims to enhance watersheds on national forests and grasslands and has already made significant progress since its inception in 2013.
According to the USDA announcement made on September 19, more than 634 million gallons of water have been refilled on national forests and grasslands as a result of the partnership's efforts. Additionally, nearly 900 acres of watersheds have been restored. The National Forest Foundation has played a crucial role in organizing 25 projects across nine states during this time. These initiatives have led to the cleaning of almost 450 acres of invasive weeds, the repair of over 14 miles of streams, the reconnection of over 17 miles of river, and the creation of 62 acres of lakes, among other accomplishments.
The national grasslands and forests serve as a crucial source of drinking water for more than 60 million Americans. Recognizing the importance of resilient forests in providing reliable drinking water, the USDA and its partners, including The Coca-Cola Company and the National Forest Foundation, are actively seeking and creating partnerships. The Coca-Cola Company and The Coca-Cola Foundation have already contributed over $2.6 million to this cooperation. Furthermore, a total of around $900,000 in funding has been provided by The Coca-Cola Company, The Coca-Cola Foundation, and Swire Coca-Cola for projects that will be implemented in 2023. These projects, located in Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico, will focus on restoring the health of streams and wetlands.
Jennifer Mann, President of Coca-Cola North America, emphasized the company's commitment to water conservation and community resilience. She stated, "At The Coca-Cola Company, water conservation has long been a top business priority. By stepping up our efforts to alleviate water stress, safeguard local water supplies, and increase community climate resilience, we are dedicated to being good stewards of this essential resource." Mann also highlighted the importance of the renewed partnership in prioritizing underserved communities and moving closer to the company's objective of returning 2 trillion liters of water to communities and ecosystems worldwide between 2021 and 2030.
Overall, the USDA and The Coca-Cola Company's partnership is making significant strides in restoring and enhancing watersheds on national forests and grasslands. The ongoing collaboration underscores the importance of protecting and preserving these natural resources for the benefit of both the environment and the communities that rely on them for clean drinking water.
