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SHELBY — The Village of Shelby was awarded a $20,345 grant to complete a public tree inventory and management plan to guide tree planting and maintenance activities in the village.
The village is among several other Michigan communities to receive a total of nearly $650,000 in grants for community projects.
The Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Grant Program is made possible via the Urban and Community Forestry Program in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service. The federally-funded grants are awarded through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
“Having a plan for our tree canopy will help us as we continue to build a safer, more well-maintained, and appealing town,” said Village Administrator Phil Morse. “Having a formal tree management plan will also aid us in our pursuit of grants and in our budget process. I invite people that have an affinity for trees to participate in the tree commission.”
“Trees are essential community infrastructure, and this grant program helps extend their many benefits to more Michigan communities,” said Kerry Gray, DNR Urban and Community Forestry Program grant specialist.
“Trees play an essential role in improving the quality of life for Michigan residents. They boost air quality, cool our communities, lower energy costs and help manage stormwater,” states a press release from the DNR. “Trees also support the mental and physical wellbeing of people who enjoy their shade and beauty, contributing to healthier, more resilient communities across the state.
“The grants were awarded to 15 communities and organizations benefiting more than 1.5 million Michigan residents. The grantees will collectively plant and care for more than 1,200 trees, create inventories of city trees and develop plans to sustainably manage over 2,000 public trees.”
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