Michigan DNR Offers $500,000 in Grants for Urban Tree Projects Across West Michigan Communities
Michigan DNR offers $500,000 in grants to communities across West Michigan for urban tree projects, with awards ranging from $10,000 to $75,000 and applications due May 18.
About $500,000 in funding is now available from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to support community tree management and planting projects. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $75,000. Applications are due May 18, 2026.
The program is funded through a partnership between the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service and the DNR's Urban and Community Forestry Program.
"Trees provide essential benefits, from improving air and water quality to cooling neighborhoods and enhancing quality of life," said Kerry Gray, DNR Urban and Community Forestry grant specialist. "This grant program is an important investment in ensuring these benefits are available to all Michigan residents. By increasing tree canopy across communities, these projects will support a healthier future for our state."
Eligible applicants include:
- Local units of government, including cities, villages, townships and counties
- Tribal governments
- State agencies
- Educational institutions
- Nonprofit organizations
Eligible activities include:
- Tree inventories and management plans
- Tree planting and maintenance
- Community engagement and outreach efforts
- Training programs
- Wood utilization initiatives
No matching funds are required from applicants, making the grants accessible to communities with limited budgets.
The DNR encourages projects that align with the program's core objectives: expanding tree canopy coverage, particularly in areas with limited existing canopy, strengthening urban and community forest management practices, and encouraging community participation in forestry efforts.
Communities interested in applying can access applications through DNR MiGrants, the state's online grant portal. The DNR has also published the UCF Assistance Grant Handbook, which provides detailed guidance on the application process and program requirements.
The funding comes as communities across Michigan work to address urban heat islands, improve air quality and enhance livability through strategic tree planting and management. Urban forests play a critical role in environmental health, providing natural cooling, reducing stormwater runoff and supporting wildlife habitat in developed areas.
For more information about the Urban and Community Forestry grants and to access the application handbook, visit Michigan.gov/UCF.
Sources
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