Urban and Community Forestry Program

This program supports the health and expansion of urban and community forests to improve environmental quality, conserve energy, improve air quality, and enhance community well-being. It provides financial, technical, and educational assistance to states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations for tree planting, maintenance, utilization, and public outreach. The program also administers competitive cost-share grants and works with the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council to develop a national action plan, set research priorities, and promote best practices for urban forestry across the United States.

Most grants are approved based on negotiated targets or objectives to be achieved. UCF State grants are based on local needs and resources. The national grant program selects proposals based on the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council's criteria established for a given year and national application.

Matching requirements are determined by the Washington Office. If matching funds are required, the funds cannot come from Federal Sources. Cooperator matches may be non-Federal cash, in-kind and non-cash contributions.

Fiscal year 2025: Community Tree Inventory and Management Plan A regional government conducts a comprehensive inventory of urban trees, assessing species, health, and canopy coverage. The data is used to develop a long-term management plan that prioritizes tree preservation, storm resilience, and strategic planting in low canopy areas. Urban Heat Island Mitigation A city partners with local nonprofits to plant and maintain thousands of shade trees along streets and in public parks to reduce heat island effects. The project includes installing permeable ground covers and educating residents on tree care to improve energy efficiency and air quality.