The PLANT Award (People Loving and Nurturing Trees) recognizes Maryland communities that plant, care for, and promote trees. Communities of all types can participate, including schools, HOAs, parks, local governments, government facilities, scout groups, and faith-based organizations. If your community has hosted a planting, organized around tree care, or taken steps to improve its local canopy, you likely already qualify.

Established in 1991, the PLANT Program was designed to support communities of all sizes, including those that may not qualify for national recognition programs such as Tree City USA. It continues to serve as an accessible entry point for building long-term urban and community forestry programs across Maryland.

Award Levels

PLANT Awards reflect a community’s level of activity over the past year. Select the level that best matches your work—applications are reviewed and awarded accordingly.

• Bronze
  For single events or one-time efforts such as tree plantings, Arbor Day activities, or community education.
• Silver
  For communities beginning to organize, such as forming a tree committee, starting an inventory, or planning future efforts.
• Gold
  For communities actively managing their trees through policies, planning, or coordinated programs.
• Green
  For established programs with sustained effort, dedicated expertise, and ongoing support.
  Communities recognized through Tree City USA or Tree Campus USA automatically qualify at this level.

Apply

Submit your application and supporting materials by email:
[email protected].

About the Program

The PLANT Award is sponsored by the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council​ in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The program reinforces early efforts and helps communities grow from individual projects into sustained programs over time. Many communities begin with a single planting or event and build toward more structured planning, investment, and long-term stewardship.

To learn more about related programs and funding opportunities, visit the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council page.