Wisconsin DNR Announces Opening of Applications for Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants

Sunday, July 14th, 2024 -- 8:00 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced the opening of applications for the Wisconsin Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, these grants have become available following the issuance of Executive Order #232 by Gov. Tony Evers on June 28, which declared a state of emergency due to severe weather across Wisconsin.

Under this initiative, the DNR's Urban Forestry Grant program is allocating 20% of its unallocated annual funds to assist eligible applicants. This includes Wisconsin municipalities, counties, tribal governments, and 501(c)(3) organizations.

The grants, ranging from $4,000 to $50,000, do not require a dollar-for-dollar match from recipients. Applications for the Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024.

The program specifically targets tree repair, removal, or replacement within urban areas following severe storm events that qualify under s. 323.10, Wis. Stats., as declared by the governor.

Eligible catastrophic storms encompass damage caused by snow, ice, hail, wind, or tornadoes. Notably, events such as insect infestations, diseases, forest fires, droughts, or flooding-related water saturation are not covered under this grant program.

This initiative aims to support urban forestry resilience and recovery efforts in Wisconsin communities impacted by recent severe weather incidents. For more information visit the DNR’s Urban Forestry Catastrophic Grants webpage.

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