Mississippi is investing $5 million in three major forestry projects.
Gov. Tate Reeves announced Thursday that the Mississippi Development Authority approved the funding through the state’s forestry facility grant program to support infrastructure, transportation improvements, and site readiness in Choctaw County, the city of Gloster, and at family-owned wood product company Bell Timber, Inc.
In Choctaw County, roughly $2,950,598 is being doled out to construct a publicly owned industrial access road, easing congestion tied to Southeastern Timber Products’ expansion. The company opened its $123 million expanded site in Ackerman in October 2025.
Meanwhile, in Gloster, around $1,349,402 has been approved to help acquire the 34-mile Gloster Southern Railroad corridor, leveraging use of a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements award to restore rail service between Slaughter, La., and the southwestern Mississippi town.
As for Bell Timber, approximately $700,000 is being passed out to help the company extend natural gas and water service and upgrade electrical infrastructure to support kiln operations.
“Forestry continues to be a cornerstone of Mississippi’s economy, and these investments make it easier for our communities to grow and compete. We’re improving the infrastructure that keeps products moving and businesses expanding,” Reeves said. “That means more opportunity, more jobs and a stronger future for Mississippians.”
Per officials, the grant program supports infrastructure and transportation needs tied to forestry industry expansion projects. Eligible uses include public infrastructure such as roads, rail access, utilities and other improvements that support economic development.
