Great lakes restoration initiative trees and equity in the lake michigan watershed a storm water reduction partnership

This federal Project Grant award of $300,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance program (CFDA 10.664) supports a partnership between the Openlands Forestry Division, a non-profit organization, and various stakeholders to undertake storm water reduction and urban forestry initiatives in the Lake Michigan watershed. The grant funding will enable Openlands to implement tree planting, habitat restoration, and environmental education activities over a 3-year period from September 2024 to September 2027. Key deliverables include expanding urban tree canopies, enhancing wildlife habitats, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts to improve water quality and manage storm water runoff in the region. As a sub-awardee, Openlands has previously participated in wetland restoration, prairie creation, and oak ecosystem expansion projects across Illinois, demonstrating their expertise in environmental stewardship and community engagement.