Greater phoenix urban forestry accelerator

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service awarded a $5,000,000 Project Grant under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program (CFDA 10.727) to Arizona State University to execute the "Greater Phoenix Urban Forestry Accelerator" initiative. This comprehensive urban forestry project aims to plan, establish, manage, and protect trees, forests, green spaces, and related natural resources in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The grant funding supports a range of activities including tree planting, ecosystem restoration, conservation planning, workforce development, and educational outreach to increase urban tree canopy and improve community environmental conditions, with a focus on advancing environmental justice in underserved areas. As part of this effort, Arizona State University has provided sub-awards totaling over $1,000,000 to local non-profit organizations and the City of Tempe to conduct community engagement, workforce training, and on-the-ground tree planting and landscaping projects. The grant period commenced on May 20, 2024 and is scheduled for completion by February 28, 2027.