The deadline for grant applications to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for communities impacted by Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is coming up later this month. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has secured funds for EAB reforestation through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. Under the Community Forestry Grant Program, reimbursable grants have been allocated to purchase and plant trees suitable for Iowa in counties impacted by the Emerald Ash Borer. A total of $75,000 in funds is now available to state and local governments, schools, volunteer organizations, and service organizations across the 97 affected counties. Award recipients will receive reimbursements ranging from $500 to $5,000 and must provide a dollar-for-dollar cash match to procure trees and materials from Iowa businesses. Public planting lands eligible for the program include street rights-of-way, parks, school grounds, courthouse lawns, public buildings, fairgrounds, cemeteries, libraries, and trails. For those interested in applying, the fall application and rules are accessible online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry. The deadline for submissions is 4:30 p.m. on August 23, 2023.
