Quick Start Grants: Applications due September 9th, 2021

The NYS Urban Forestry Council is pleased to announce Quick Start grants for communities to hold a tree planting event in the fall of 2021 celebrating Arbor Day, with the intention of moving toward becoming a Tree City USA. Communities can apply for up to $1,000. Funding has been provided by the USDA Forest Service. 2021 Fall Quick Start Grant Application Package

Communities are eligible if they intend to work toward Tree City status but are lacking any of the components of the Tree City USA program. The four components include having a tree ordinance, a tree board, $2/capita budgeted for trees, and an annual Arbor Day celebration with proclamation. Definitions and details of those components and application instructions can be found on the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA website.

Tree City USA Reward Grants: Applications due September 16, 2021

The NYS Urban Forestry Council announces Tree City USA Reward grants for communities to plant large specimen trees or a grove of trees in a prominent location within the community. Communities in New York State that have been a Tree City USA for at least the past five consecutive years can apply for up to $1,000. Funding has been provided by the New York State Urban Forestry Council and the USDA Forest Service. 2021 Tree City USA Reward Grant Application Package

The intent of this grant is to encourage municipalities to sustain their community forestry program and maintain their status as a Tree City USA Community. The grant will reward communities for consistent participation in the Tree City USA program through a celebratory tree planting event.