Delaware Forest Service awards grants for tree planting projects
The Delaware Forest Service has awarded more than $58,000 in grants to fund 16 tree-planting projects throughout the First State. Since 2007, the agency has given more than $1.7 million to cities, towns, and homeowner groups to support community tree efforts that take place on public lands. Recipients provide a 50-50 cost-share match in either non-federal funds or in-kind services such as volunteer time, equipment or donated supplies.
Delaware Urban and Community Forestry Grant recipients in Sussex County are Delaware Botanic Gardens Inc., Dagsboro, $5,000; Town of Ellendale, $2,345; Villages of Five Points, Lewes, $3,000; Bay Crossing, Lewes, $3,695; City of Lewes, $3,921; James Farm Ecological Preserve, Ocean View, $4,978; Grande at Canal Pointe, Rehoboth Beach, $3,475; and Meadows at Old Landing, Rehoboth Beach, $4,295.
“These urban forestry grants are a central part of our agency’s efforts to meet our statewide program goals. Tree-planting projects help bring people together, build awareness about the importance of proper tree care in community settings, and highlight the many benefits of increasing tree canopy,” said Kesha Braunskill, Delaware Forest Service urban and community forestry director.
Delaware’s Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program is a competitive process open to all municipalities, community associations, and certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations in Delaware. Funds can only be utilized on public property owned by the municipality, HOA or nonprofit organization. Grants ranged from $500 to a maximum of $5,000 in two project categories: tree planting or tree management.
Applications were limited to one project in one category and were judged on a competitive basis by the grant committee of the Delaware Community Forestry Council. Eligible projects must be performed on public lands within the community. Priority was given to first-time applicants, Tree Friendly Communities, and applicants that have passed an Urban Tree Canopy Goal Resolution (only applies to municipalities).
