The New York State Urban Forestry Council is pleased to announce available funding for communities to hold a tree planting event in the spring of 2024 celebrating Arbor Day and to establish a community-based forestry program. Communities can apply for up to $1,000. Funding has been provided by the USDA Forest Service.
Grant Goals:
The intent of this grant is to help municipalities establish a community forestry program and to move toward becoming a Tree City USA Community, which is a program of the Arbor Day Foundation.
Eligibility:
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, at least $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.
Communities that are currently a Tree City USA or are a recipient of a previous NYS Urban Forestry Council Quick Start Grant are ineligible.
Projects must include:
- planting trees (see the recommended resources listed in this notice to facilitate tree species selections). Planting must be done in the spring of 2024.
- holding an Arbor Day ceremony in the spring of 2024 (does not have to be on the official Arbor Day).
Eligible expenses may include but are not limited to trees, mulch, soil, printing of a program, advertising to publicize the event.
Communities that are currently a Tree City USA or are a recipient of previous NYS Urban Forestry Council Arbor Day Community Grants are ineligible.
Applications are due (postmarked) by 5pm on March 7, 2024.