Community Forestry Program

For more information about this grant and Montclair's efforts to create a greener and more equitable community, please contact Dr. Lisa Johnson, Montclair’s Director of Sustainability, at ljohnson@montclairnjusa.org or 973-509-5721.

Learn more about the 2023 Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program and the value of urban forests at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/urban-forests

This grant aims to support the township’s endeavor for equitable urban tree access and climate resilience. This will be accomplished by mitigating hotspots and reducing the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect through an expansion of the urban tree canopy. Moreover, it will give precedence to underserved communities, increase educational outreach, and provide backing for youth employment.

Research indicates that communities with ample access to trees and green spaces experience improved health outcomes, decreased crime rates, lower average temperatures, and a surge in various types of investments and new economic prospects.

In Montclair, we are witnessing a pressing demand to address the adverse impacts of UHIs and rectify environmental injustices. We firmly believe that initiatives such as tree planting, improving air quality, reducing energy demands, bolstering workforce development, and fostering greater community involvement will yield substantial benefits in tackling the damaging effects of extreme heat and promoting environmental equity within our communities. 

Non-Discrimination Statement: USDA and the Township of Montclair are equal opportunity providers and employers. 

The Department of Sustainability offers opportunities for residents, businesses, and community organizations to request a native tree. Learn more about these opportunities by clicking the tabs below.