Inflation reduction act urban and community forestry expansion

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service awarded a $3,571,064 Project Grant to the Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council, Inc. under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program (CFDA 10.727). This 5-year grant, awarded on April 19, 2024, supports comprehensive urban forestry initiatives in Alabama focused on planning, establishing, managing, and protecting trees, forests, green spaces, and related natural resources. Key activities include tree planting, ecosystem restoration, conservation planning, workforce development, and educational outreach to increase tree canopy cover and improve community environmental conditions, with a particular emphasis on advancing environmental justice in underserved areas. The Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council, a nonprofit organization, has extensive experience implementing federally funded conservation and community development projects across multiple Alabama counties.