DNR Urban and Community Forestry Grants now available

The Department of Natural Resources announced applications are available for the 2011 Community Forestry Grants program. Grant applications for community forestry activities are available from the DNR's Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program. These grants are funded through the USDA Forest Service, State, and Private Forestry Program. ''Trees provide many benefits to communities, including shade, oxygen, and beautifully landscaped streets,'' said Kevin Sayers, DNR UCF program coordinator. ''These grants will help enhance the livability of our communities through tree planting and improve the management of our valuable natural resources.'' Local units of government, nonprofit organizations and schools are eligible to apply. All projects must be performed on non-federal public land or land open to the public. Community forestry projects considered for funding include: * Community tree management and planning activities * Training and education activities * Purchase of trees, and * Arbor Day celebrations Grant applications must be received by Sept. 16, 2011, to be given funding consideration for this grant cycle. Projects must be completed by Sept. 1, 2012. This year up to $100,000 may be awarded statewide for approved projects. All grants require a one-to-one match of funds. The match may be made up of cash contributions or in-kind services, but may not include federal funds. Depending on the category, grants up to $20,000 may be requested. For a grant application or more information, visit the DNR website at www.michigan.gov /ucf or contact Kevin Sayers at 517-241-4632, via email at sayersk@mi.gov, or in writing at DNR, Forest Management Division, P.O. Box 30452, Lansing, MI 48909-7952. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan. gov/dnr. Published: Mon, Aug 8, 2011