The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now offering a new opportunity for communities to improve and expand local tree coverage through funding provided by the USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act.
The 2026 Iowa Tree Planting Grant program will provide reimbursable funding to help eligible applicants purchase trees and cover related planting costs such as mulch, staking or tree protection, and supplemental watering. Work may be completed over a three-season period, including fall 2026, spring and fall 2027, and spring 2028.
Grants are competitive and do not require a local match. Award amounts will range from $10,000 to $30,000 per applicant.
Eligible applicants include city and other local government entities, as well as volunteer and service organizations that support urban and community forestry efforts. Projects must take place on publicly owned land and focus on expanding and diversifying tree canopy cover. The program aims to increase environmental benefits, reduce energy costs, address health disparities, and improve access to parks and natural spaces. Eligibility will be determined using the Forest Cover and Socioeconomic Assessment Tool.
Applications must be submitted through the Iowa DNR Urban Forestry Grant Programs website by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026. Selected recipients will be announced by Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
For questions regarding program rules, reimbursement, or the application process, applicants may contact Chip Murrow at chip.murrow@dnr.iowa.gov or 515-822-1031. Assistance with applications or to schedule a site visit is available by contacting Laurie Dams at lauren.dams@dnr.iowa.gov or 515-782-6414.
