Trees Forever is focusing on improving community forests! We help communities prepare and recover from natural disasters and invasive pests, such as emerald ash borer. Thanks to a partnership between Trees Forever, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service, these services and helpful resources are available to Illinois communities.
Bring workshops, an inventory and awareness to your community!
By providing training on best practices for tree care and species selection, we can make our forests stronger and less susceptible to damage from tornadoes, wind, ice, flooding, droughts, diseases and invasive species. As local budgets become more strained, these preventative proactive measures are vital to the health of our planet!
Funding to Replant Your Community Forest
Trees Forever’s Recover, Replant, Restore! grants of $500 to $3,000 are available to Illinois communities diversifying their community forests or recovering from natural or man-made disasters particularly emerald ash borer (EAB). The grants will also help communities prepare for these disasters by planting more diverse disease- and storm-resistant shade trees. Projects may include planting trees along streets, trails, community entryways, at schools, public buildings, parks and more.
Requirements
These projects require volunteer involvement.
This grant can ONLY be used to cover the cost of the trees themselves, not supplemental materials – those can be counted towards the match. Reimbursement will occur once planting is completed and documentation is submitted.
Review the Species Selection folder on our resource page. Here you’ll find suggested species for pollinators, windbreaks, dense Shade, moderate to light shade and powerline areas. These are go-to varieties that grow well in our area and support biodiversity. If you need help, reach out to the Trees Forever Field Coordinator in your area. Not sure who that is? Give us a call at 319-373-0650 x 110.
Get quotes from local nurseries and put together a budget sheet using the form. Trees MUST be under 1.5” diameter to be funded by this grant. Also include match items – 100% match is required.
Gather other relevant information. You’ll need an ariel site map (Google maps is fine), a site sketch, a committee of least 5 people, and details about your proposed project including a description, maintenance plan, and information about your community.