INDIANA — In a major push to enhance Indiana’s canopy cover and environmental health, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced today that it has awarded more than $300,000 in grant funding to 21 organizations across the state.
This year’s funding highlights a strategic effort to reach smaller municipalities while continuing to combat invasive species and support urban forestry initiatives.
Empowering Small Communities: “Small Town Big Trees”
Leading the announcement is the launch of the Small Town Big Trees grant, a new initiative specifically designed to lower barriers for Indiana’s smaller populations. Reserved exclusively for communities with 10,000 residents or fewer, the program saw three first-time participants receive funding for tree planting in its inaugural round:
- Rising Sun
- Charlestown
- Wakarusa
Combating the Emerald Ash Borer
The State Urban Forest Resilience (SUFR) Grant returned this year to provide critical support for areas devastated by the Emerald Ash Borer. These funds are dedicated to the treatment or removal of infested ash trees and the subsequent replanting of resilient species. The 2024 recipients include:
- City of Bloomington
- Indiana University (Multiple campuses)
- Regreening Greenfield
Investing in the Future: CUFA Grants
The traditional Community & Urban Forestry Assistance (CUFA) Grant remains the backbone of the program, awarding funds to 15 diverse organizations. These grants support a wide array of projects, from “foraging forests” and urban orchards to workforce development and invasive species removal.
This year’s CUFA recipients are:
- Municipalities: Cities of Jeffersonville, Kendallville, Richmond, Noblesville, and Huntington.
- Parks & Education: Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation, Hamilton County Parks and Recreation, Bethany Christian School, Ivy Tech, Whitko Community School, and IU-Kokomo.
- Non-Profits & Conservation: TREES Inc, Minnetrista Museum and Gardens, Unity Gardens, and Bartholomew County SWCD.
