RIVERDALE, Ill. - TelAve -- Riverdale Park District has been awarded a $75,426 subgrant by The Morton Arboretum's Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI) to improve the community tree canopy.

The competitive subgrant is among nearly 40 provided to nonprofits, government entities and other eligible groups through Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, administered by CRTI.

The four-year grants, which do not require matching funds, are available for projects in communities that meet the federal requirements as disadvantaged. The funding can be used for projects that increase tree canopy, improve forest health, and create or enhance community forestry programs.

Antoinette Horton, long-time resident and Riverdale Park District supporter, said, "Wow, what a wonderful thing! This will really help improve the air quality in the entire Village and make the parks more beautiful than they already are."

Through this subgrant, Riverdale Park District will Initiate a tree inventory and management plan focused on seven of the District's eight parks, and establish a Green Council consisting of residents and park staff. This council will develop policies and ensure the effective implementation of the plan, which includes planting additional trees, thereby enhancing the Village's overall wellness and sustainability.

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Various projects funded through the CRTI sub-grants include tree planting and the formation of tree inventory and management plans, in both urban and rural areas, to help increase efficiency and proactiveness in community forestry, as well as support local economies and businesses through improved infrastructure and workforce development.

"Improving the distribution of trees and green spaces directly impacts the health and economic outcomes for communities," said CRTI Director Zach Wirtz. "Projects like this improve quality of life and boost the urban tree canopy's resilience to threats posed by environmental conditions, pests and diseases."

Funding for this project is provided by the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program in partnership with The Morton Arboretum's Chicago Region Trees Initiative. USDA, The Morton Arboretum, and the Riverdale Park District are equal opportunity providers.
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