The Department of Natural Resources today announced applications are available for the 2008-09 Community Forestry Grants.

Grant applications for community forestry activities are available from the DNR's Urban and Community Forestry Program. These grants are funded through the USDA Forest Service's State and Private Forestry Program.

"Trees provide many benefits to communities, including shade, oxygen, and beautifully landscaped streets," said Lynne Boyd, chief of the DNR's Forest, Mineral and Fire Management Division. "These grants help communities understand and properly manage our valuable natural resources."

Local units of government, non-profit organizations, tribes, and schools are eligible to apply. All projects must be performed on non-federal public land or land open to the public. Community forestry projects considered for funding include management and planning, training and education, and tree planting.

Grant applications must be received by Aug. 29, 2008 to be given funding consideration for this grant cycle. Projects must be completed by Sept.1, 2009.

This year, approximately $120,000 will be awarded statewide for approved projects. All grants require matching funds of at least 50 percent. The match may be made up of cash contributions or in-kind services, but may not include federal funds. Depending on the category, grants up to $20,000 may be requested.

For more information or a grant application, contact Kevin Sayers, DNR urban and community forester, at 517-241-4632, via email at sayersk@mi.gov, or in writing at DNR, Forest, Mineral and Fire Management, P.O. Box 30452, Lansing, MI 48909-7952, or by visiting the DNR Web site at http://www.mi.gov/dnrucf.