The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Development Grants for FY 2025, funded by the USDA and administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), support innovative urban forestry projects with a long-term community impact. A total of $90,000 is available, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Funding requires a 3:1 match, which can include cash or in-kind contributions, and is distributed on a reimbursement basis. Applications are due by January 3, 2025, and grant-funded activities are expected to begin in May 2025 after agreements are finalized.

The program focuses on creating or updating urban forest management plans to enhance the health, extent, and functionality of community forests. Eligible projects include inventory and management plans, hazardous tree removal and replacement, strategic planting to address canopy gaps, education and public awareness initiatives, and workforce development. Additional activities could involve trial projects for climate adaptation or pollution control, food forests, and supporting culturally significant or ecologically beneficial tree species. These projects aim to promote ecological resilience, public well-being, and community engagement while addressing climate change and urbanization challenges.

Eligible applicants include Montana cities, towns, counties, community-based organizations, nonprofits, tribal governments, and public or state institutions of higher education. Applicants must collaborate with DNRC Forestry staff during the project design and planning stages. Contact information for local foresters is available on the DNRC website.

Grant funds may cover expenses such as personnel for project execution, supplies, materials, contracted professional services, and administrative costs. However, funds cannot be used for large equipment purchases, hardscaping, food, entertainment, or promotional items. Eligible match expenses include documented cash expenditures and in-kind contributions like volunteer time, professional services, or donated materials. Federal and DNRC funds cannot be used as match sources.

Applications will be evaluated by a selection committee in February 2025, with scoring based on alignment with federal and state program goals, sustainability, and community impact. Supplemental materials like maps and photos are encouraged to illustrate project proposals. A worksheet is available to help applicants prepare responses before submitting through Submittable.

For further details, contact Alexis Armstrong, Forestry Assistance Program Support Technician, at 406-542-4207 or alexis.armstrong@mt.gov. Applicants are encouraged to use available resources, including the DNRC Subaward Manual, to ensure compliance with program guidelines.