New York Opens $20M Fund for Urban Tree Planting

New York is putting serious money behind getting more trees into the ground where they're needed most.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $20 million in grants is now available for community reforestation projects across New York. The best part? Organizations can apply for up to $3 million without having to match a single dollar.

The Community Reforestation Grant Program targets urban areas that need trees the most. Indigenous Nations, nonprofits, municipalities, and conservation districts can all apply to plant forests in cities and towns throughout the state.

This isn't just about making neighborhoods prettier. Trees planted through these grants will tackle some of our biggest environmental challenges head on.

Urban forests naturally filter stormwater runoff, keeping pollution out of rivers and streams. They cool streets during dangerous heat waves and absorb carbon dioxide that would otherwise warm the planet. In flood-prone areas, tree roots help soil absorb water that might otherwise damage homes and businesses.

Communities with low tree coverage and disadvantaged neighborhoods will get priority in the selection process. That means areas that have historically had less green space will finally get the environmental benefits wealthier neighborhoods have enjoyed for decades.

The grants feed into New York's ambitious 25 Million Trees Initiative, launched in 2024 to recognize how critical forests are for climate resilience and public health. Commissioner Amanda Lefton noted that healthy urban forests provide wildlife habitat, protect biodiversity, and give city residents access to nature close to home.

The Ripple Effect

The impact of urban forests extends far beyond the trees themselves. Studies show that neighborhoods with more tree canopy have lower rates of respiratory illness and heat-related emergencies. Property values increase, and communities report feeling safer and more connected to their neighbors.

Local economies benefit too. Tree planting projects create jobs in nurseries, landscaping, and environmental services. Once established, urban forests save cities money on stormwater management and reduce energy costs as shade trees cool buildings naturally.

Eligible projects can include site preparation, planting, removing invasive species, and installing deer protection. The funding splits into $4 million for smaller projects under $500,000 and $16 million for larger restoration efforts.

Applications close November 4, 2026. New York's Department of Environmental Conservation will host an information webinar on August 20 to help potential applicants understand the process and requirements.

For communities ready to green their streets and parks, the path forward just got a whole lot clearer.