Inflation reduction act advancing urban canopy equity through community forestry

The federal Project Grant award from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program (CFDA 10.727), provides $3,000,000.00 to Openlands Forestry Division, a non-profit organization in Chicago, Illinois. The award, with a performance period from August 5, 2024 to July 31, 2029, will fund comprehensive urban forestry projects that plan, establish, manage, and protect trees, forests, green spaces, and related natural resources in the Chicago area. This includes initiatives focused on providing ecosystem services, social benefits, and economic advantages to urban communities, with a particular emphasis on advancing environmental justice in underserved areas. Openlands, as the primary awardee, has a history of delivering successful federal grant-funded projects related to environmental conservation, education, and restoration efforts in the region.