Increasing seedling inventory by improving efficiencies

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service awarded a $320,000 Project Grant under the Forest Stewardship Program (CFDA 10.678) to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on April 15, 2024. This grant supports the DNR's "Increasing Seedling Inventory by Improving Efficiencies" project, which aims to promote the long-term active management of non-industrial private and other non-federal forest lands in Illinois to sustain their multiple environmental, economic, and social values. The project will leverage the expertise of state, federal, and private forestry professionals to provide technical assistance, develop forest management plans, and implement conservation practices. Key activities include expanding tree seedling production and distribution, conducting forest health monitoring, and controlling invasive species. The project has a scheduled completion date of September 30, 2027. The Illinois DNR, through its Natural Resources Division and Internship/Recycling program, will serve as the primary grant recipient and implementation partner.