Shade Tree and Community Forestry Assistance

DIVISION: Parks and Forestry
GENERAL PHONE NUMBER: (609) 292-2532
FAX NUMBER: (609) 984-0378
WEB SITE

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The Community Forestry Act was passed to acknowledge the contributions shade trees and community forests make to a community and the necessity to nurture, protect and manage a vigorous community forest resource. This enables municipalities to reduce or eliminate their exposure to litigation due to the drastic decline and poor condition of their community tree resources. The basis for this protection is a properly planned local community forestry program implemented through a state approved management plan, as well as municipal or county participation in the state's training and accreditation program. A management plan is an essential guide to successfully achieving a healthy and safe community forest.

MONETARY ASSISTANCE PROVIDED

Through the sale of the "Treasure Our Trees" License Plates, Community Forestry Grants are available to assist communities in meeting the requirements of the Community Forestry Act.

The Green Community Grant is available to municipalities and counties in the maximum amount of $3,000 to develop a five-year comprehensive community forestry management plan. A mandatory 50% match of the requested grant funding level must be supplied through in-kind contributions and/or cash support. This five-year plan highlights both short and long term implementation plans, including tree assessments and inventories, hazard tree identification, tree planting and maintenance activities.

The Community Stewardship Incentive Program (CSIP) Grant is available after a community forestry management plan is approved. The grant will enable a community to implement their management plan through a specific set of CSIP practices. The maximum amount of grant funding is $25,000 and is matched by a community with as least 25% monetary and/or in-kind contributions.

PERMITTING RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE:

Several publications are available that would assist communities in understanding and participating in the Community Forestry Act. Information includes program guidelines, tree specifications and practices, general program brochures, grant applications and instructions, and other specific community forestry items. Please contact the office for information on obtaining copies of the literature.