The Imperial Irrigation District invites cities, counties, special districts, nonprofits, and community-based organizations to apply for grant funding for tree-planting projects in public spaces. Through the new Public Green Space Grant Program, the initiative aims to mitigate urban heat, reduce temperatures, and beautify local communities.
Funded through IID’s Tree for All program, the Public Green Space Grant Program offers $350,000 in total, with individual awards up to $35,000. Grant applications opened May 20, 2024, and are due by July 1, 2024. Projects must be completed by December 2, 2024.“
This grant is designed to create cooler, more livable communities,” said Matt Smelser, IID Energy Department Manager. “We encourage public entities, non-profits, and community groups to apply. Our goal is to foster partnerships that enhance the quality of life for all residents.”
IID Director JB Hamby stated, “Tree for All reinvests in our communities, combats high summer temperatures, and beautifies our region. Trees naturally cool communities by reducing the urban heat island effect and combat rising temperatures naturally.”
IID Director Karin Eugenio added, “Planting more trees will make outdoor spaces more enjoyable, reduce energy demand for air conditioning, and promote energy conservation. It’s a win-win for people and our environment.”
Urban trees are vital for improving ecological and social resilience. Urban greening mitigates heat islands, improves air and water quality, increases biodiversity, and enhances human health and well-being. These benefits are crucial as climate change and urbanization increase.
Trees cool cities through shading and transpiration, significantly reducing temperatures. By blocking solar radiation, tree shading can lower temperatures by an average of 40°F. Additionally, trees mitigate heat stress risks by reducing the urban heat island effect.
Eligible projects for the grant funds must include significant shade-tree planting to increase green spaces and expand healthy urban forests. Projects that improve community areas, especially those providing parks or recreational benefits to underserved communities, will receive additional points.
While no matching funds are required to apply for or receive a grant, applications with matching or “cost-sharing” funds will receive additional points. An IID grant review committee will evaluate each application.
The IID Tree for All Program, funded by the district’s Public Benefits Program, has provided thousands of new trees to IID residential customers since 2021. This effort reduces urban temperatures, combats climate change, and improves health and well-being. The Public Green Space Grants expands this program to benefit under-resourced neighborhoods.
Applications and materials should be completed using the official IID grant application form, accessible over the IID website at www.iid.com/treeforallgrants. Signed applications must be submitted by July 1, 2024, via email to [email protected]. For questions, email that address or call IID at 1-760-428-3306.
