Communities, schools and other groups looking to boost green spaces are encouraged to apply for 2018-19 Urban and Community Forestry grants. Up to $100,000 is available for projects statewide through the DNR-administered program. 

“The focus of this year’s grant program is to support projects that help local communities better manage their urban and community forestry resources,” said Kevin Sayers, Urban and Community Forestry program coordinator.

Depending on the project type, applicants may request grants up to $20,000. All grants require a one-to-one match of funds; these can be cash contributions or in-kind services but cannot include federal funds.

Local units of government, nonprofit organizations, schools and tribal governments are encouraged to apply. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Urban forest management, planning and innovation projects.
• Urban forestry and arborist training and education events and materials.
• Arbor Day celebrations and materials.

"In urban landscapes, trees provide welcome shade, can help cool streets and provide habitat for wildlife," Sayers said. "They also can help homeowners increase property values and save on energy costs."

Grant applications must be postmarked by Sept. 21, 2018, and projects that receive funding must be completed by Sept. 1, 2019. The grants are funded through the U.S. Forest Service’s State and Private Forestry Program.

For a grant application or more information, visit michigan.gov/ucf, contact Kevin Sayers at 517-284-5898 or write to DNR Forest Resources Division, P.O. Box 30452, Lansing, MI 48909-7952.