Inflation reduction act urban and community forestry expansion

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service has awarded a $6,000,000 Project Grant to The Walls Project, a non-profit organization and community development corporation based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The grant, provided under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program (CFDA 10.727), supports The Walls Project's efforts in urban tree canopy expansion and environmental justice initiatives in Louisiana over a five-year period from 2024 to 2029.

The Walls Project's work under this grant includes planning, establishing, managing, and protecting trees, forests, green spaces, and related natural resources in cities and towns. The organization's activities are designed to provide ecosystem services, social benefits, and economic advantages to urban and community settings, with a particular emphasis on advancing environmental justice in underserved areas. Key project activities involve tree planting, ecosystem restoration, conservation planning, workforce development, and educational outreach to increase tree canopy cover and improve community environmental conditions.