Urban forestry grant awards presented

Approximately $300,000 in Urban and Community Forestry Grants for 32 tree planting projects in local urban neighborhoods and parks to promote energy savings, habitat creation, increased property values, and improved quality of life for New York's urban residents will be presented. "New York is committed to enhancing urban areas and conserving valuable natural resources statewide," former Governor Pataki said. "These grants will build on our strong record of preserving the environment and have a lasting impact on urban areas by creating cleaner, healthier communities for future generations to enjoy."

These grants are for community tree planting projects that will result in the planting of an estimated 3,000 new trees. The grants provide funding for trees, soil amendments, and labor. The community will match the funds with in-kind services, donations and project related purchases such as additional trees.

Recipients were chosen based on criteria that included the future contribution the tree planting project will have on increasing tree canopy cover over streets, parking lots, buildings and other built infrastructure, or increasing in open space forest canopy to create habitat; proper planting techniques and appropriate trees species for the planting locations; a plan to maintain trees after planting; and outreach and education to residents in project areas. In addition to environmental and forestry components, ratings also considered how the project would contribute to environmental justice by factoring in population density, relative economic status, and outreach to underserved communities.

"I applaud Governor Pataki for his commitment to enhancing New York's urban landscapes," DEC Commissioner Sheehan said. "These grants will allow urban communities to enhance the quality of city life by planting new trees and will offer New Yorkers the opportunity to experience the valuable benefits that trees provide.

In Monroe County, the Town of Greece received $7,500. The Department of Public Works will plant 150-175 trees. In the Village of Brockport, $7,400 was received for the planting of 48 trees on public rights of way along village streets.

January 7, 2007