There is a grant opportunity for communities around the state.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is providing $900,000 in competitive grants with the USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act Tree Planting Grant. These grants are reimbursable, and can be used to purchase trees, mulch, tree staking/protection and supplemental watering by a contractor or city staff.

Community governmental entities, volunteer organizations and service organizations involved with local urban and community forest services are all able to apply for the grant, with the goal of planting trees on publicly owned properties in their communities. A Forest Cover and Socioeconomic Assessment will be used to determine eligibility for the grant. The grants are a two year program, covering 2025 and 2026, with funding being awarded between $10,000 and $30,000. To apply for the grant, go to the Iowa DNR’s Urban Forestry website. Applications are due by 4pm on December 30th, with recipients to be notified by January 15, 2025.