TreeVitalize Metros Sub-Grant Program Guidelines
TreeVitalize Metros proposes to increase tree canopy cover in the metropolitan areas of Pennsylvania. Research has repeatedly shown a direct link between the presence of trees and the quality of life for urban residents. Trees help to capture storm water and reduce runoff, improve water quality, improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effects, beautify communities, increase property values, reduce heating and cooling costs and improve human health. The program seeks to target heavily populated areas with low tree canopy cover within the metropolitan areas of the state. Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (DCNR’s) goals for TreeVitalize are to: plant 1,000,000 trees through this and other programs, train community volunteers to assist in the planting and early care of trees; and build community capacity for the long term management of urban forests. The program provides technical assistance and matching grants to communities for tree-planting to help establish urban forest management programs.
Program Description: TreeVitalize is a partnership of DCNR, PA Community Forests, Penn State Extension Urban Forestry, and local municipalities. The program was initiated in Philadelphia in 2004 and has since been expanded to include the five-county metropolitan area surrounding Philadelphia as well as the City of Pittsburgh. “TreeVitalize Metros” was launched in the fall of 2008 and is intended to expand the program to the other twelve metropolitan areas of the state.
Southern Alleghenies Region counties eligible to participate in TreeVitalize Metros are:
Who can apply?
Funds can be awarded only to municipalities (city, borough, incorporated town, township, or home rule municipality), municipal agencies (official agency created by a municipal government under the laws of the Commonwealth such as municipal authorities, councils of government, and intergovernmental organizations). Trees may be planted within the public right-of-way (along streets, between sidewalk and curb generally) or within parks and greenways open to the public.
What is the application process?
Communities seeking TreeVitalize grants must apply through the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission (SAP&DC) as the Metro Partner. Eligible applicants apply using the 2012 TVM Application, which can be downloaded at the bottom of this page. The community is to provide two copies with original signature, along with any supporting documents, to the Metro Partner. For the 2012 Planting seasons, applications are due to the SAP&DC no later than 4:30 PM on March 1, 2012, and September 1, 2012.
Who do I contact with questions?
For questions regarding the grant application process, contact Christopher Roland at (814) 949-6510 or croland@sapdc.org or Christine Ticehurst, DCNR TreeVitalize Program Administrator at 717-346-9583.