Grant - UCF Tree Canopy Enhancement Grant Program

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is soliciting grant applications for tree planting in Burdened Areas across Massachusetts through the Urban and Community Forestry Tree Canopy Enhancement Grant Program, with applications due November 2, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.

Eligible applicants are municipalities, 501(c)(3) organizations, and federally recognized Tribes. This is a reimbursement grant with no match requirement; applicants must incur eligible costs and seek reimbursement through the Commonwealth's Grants Management System with documentation of payment. Applicants must demonstrate use of non-state funding sources—municipal funds, foundation grants, or local partner contributions.

Projects must prioritize large-canopy tree species with mature heights exceeding 25 feet and caliper sizes between 1.5 and 2.5 inches planted entirely within Burdened Areas as identified through MassEnviroScreen tools. Eligible activities include tree purchase and planting, tree pit excavation and restoration, impervious-surface removal, stump and tree removal for site preparation, maintenance during establishment, public education, and vacant-lot restoration. Administrative costs are capped at 20 percent of total project costs. Ineligible expenses include application preparation, staff salaries, equipment over $10,000, motor vehicles, stump grinding, and food or beverage purchases.

Grant awards range from $20,000 to $100,000, with exceptions possible at DCR's discretion. The program is funded through $1.5 billion allocated to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program under President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. Contracts commence upon execution and run through December 31, 2027, with optional extension at DCR's discretion that does not increase monetary award value.

A virtual grant information session is scheduled for September 24, 2026. Award notifications are estimated 90 to 120 days after the application deadline, with contract execution anticipated in spring 2027. Applications must include completed face sheet with authorized signatures, a 3–5 page narrative, detailed budget, project timeline, and letters of support from key cooperators and the local tree warden. Commonwealth payments are issued via Electronic Funds Transfer 45 days from invoice receipt.