Inflation reduction act cooling minnesota communities expanding tree canopies empowering communities and increasing access

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service awarded a $10,000,000.00 Project Grant under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program (CFDA 10.727) to Great River Greening, a non-profit organization, on May 7, 2024. The grant funding will be used to plan, establish, manage, and protect trees, forests, green spaces, and related natural resources in cities and towns across Minnesota. The project aims 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 activities will include tree planting, ecosystem restoration, conservation planning, workforce development, and educational outreach designed to increase tree canopy cover and improve community environmental conditions. The program demonstrates a consistent pattern of substantial funding, with grant values ranging from $200,000 to $17,000,000 and typical project durations of 5 years.