Grants for tree removal on PUBLIC land
Part of a healthy community tree canopy is the management of dead and damaged trees for safety and to make room for new plantings. Towns of all sizes struggle to handle the sheer number of trees that need to be removed due to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), natural disasters, or other causes. Trees Forever is now offering tree removal grants to Illinois Tree City USA communities.
Eligible communities must have Tree City USA designation. These competitive grants pay for tree removal of dead, dying, or damaged trees by a certified professional. Communities can then be eligible for a tree planting grant to replace trees that are removed.
Current Participants
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Grants for tree removal on PUBLIC land
Part of a healthy community tree canopy is the management of dead and damaged trees for safety and to make room for new plantings. Towns of all sizes struggle to handle the sheer number of trees that need to be removed due to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), natural disasters, or other causes. Trees Forever is now offering tree removal grants to Illinois Tree City USA communities.
Eligible communities must have Tree City USA designation. These competitive grants pay for tree removal of dead, dying, or damaged trees by a certified professional. Communities can then be eligible for a tree planting grant to replace trees that are removed.
Interested?
Check eligibility
All communities applying for this grant must have Tree City USA designation. Additionally, see if your community qualifies at the Illinois IRA Screening Tool map. For guidance on using the eligibility map please watch this short video.
Applications will reopen Spring 2026
If you have questions about the program, contact Trees Forever Illinois Program Manager Connie Cowan at ccowan@treesforever.org.
Helpful Links:
Program Partners:
Grant funding is provided through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
