DOVER -- The Delaware Forest Service is now accepting applications for up to $40,000 in urban forestry grants for tree planting or tree management projects on public lands or community open space. Requests can range from $500 to $5,000 and must be matched on a 50-50 basis with non-federal funds or in-kind services (volunteer or staff time, equipment rental, etc.).

The program is open to all municipalities, homeowner associations, and non-profit groups within the State of Delaware. Applications are due by 4:30 pm on March 3, 2017. Chesapeake Bay Tree Planting Grants are also available for applicants with land located in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. In the past 10 years, the program has awarded more than $1 million to fund a wide range of tree projects throughout the First State.

Grant applications are limited to one project in one project category (tree planting or tree management) and are judged on a competitive basis by a grant committee of the Delaware Community Forestry Council.

The Delaware Center for Horticulture and the Delaware Forest Service will hold two free, public workshops – Wilmington on Jan. 18 and Dover on Jan. 25 – for potential applicants to learn more about the 2017 grant requirements and the application process. Advance registration is required. Click here for more information and to register.