99 -- SBA PROPOSES SIZE STANDARD FOR FOREST FIRE SUPPRESSION AND FUELS MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

The Small Business Administration is proposing to raise the size standard for companies engaged in Forest Fire Suppression and Fuels Management activities classified under NAICS 115310 from $6 million to $15 million. This adjustment reflects the increased federal focus and funding directed toward removing biomass fuel from national forests, as well as the expanded reliance on private sector firms to carry out these important forest management and fire suppression tasks. The change aims to better align with the government's heightened priorities and budget growth in this area. Public comments on this proposal are invited and must be submitted by August 19, 2002. The proposed rule can be reviewed on the SBA’s website, providing stakeholders the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process. This size standard change is significant for businesses involved in support activities for forestry, as it affects eligibility criteria for small business programs and contracting opportunities within these specialized environmental management sectors.