Community Tree Planting and Education Grant Program

The Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council (MUCFC) provides funding to support community-based tree planting and forestry education projects that strengthen Maryland’s urban forests. Grants are open to organizations statewide for work on public lands that improves the urban tree canopy, engages citizens, and promotes long-term environmental stewardship.

Grant Process

1. Review the Grant Guidelines​​
2. Submit a project application online or by e-mail (PD​F)
3. ​Complete the Project
4. Submit a Final Report
   (Veiw a sample final report)
   

Final reports are due one month after the proposed completion date. Any unused funds must be returned with the report.​

Eligibility and Requirements

All funded projects must occur on public lands, such as school grounds, parks, town centers, or municipal properties. Projects that include matching funds or in-kind support are given priority.

Applications must be approved by the MUCFC and signed by your local County Forestry Board prior to starting the project. Funding is only available to organizations, not individual applicants.

Projects that promote urban tree canopy and long-term maintenance receive preference. Failure to submit a final report or return unused funds may disqualify applicants from future grants.

Tree Planting Projects

• A clear site plan and project description
• A list of tree species and sizes (native, shade-providing trees preferred; invasive species will not be funded)
• A maintenance plan describing watering, mulching, weeding, and long-term care
  

Projects should use reasonably priced plant materials. When possible, source trees from the John S. Ayton State Tree Nursery or the TreeMendous Maryland​ program. ​

Educational and Outreach Projects

Educational and outreach efforts must raise public awareness about the value of trees in urban environments. Successful applications should include:

• Draft content or images for signage or publications
• A description of the target audience and distribution plan
• An explanation of how the project addresses an unmet informational need
• Clear credit to MUCFC on all printed materials and signage
  “Maryland Urban & Community Forestry Council (MUCFC) funded the printing of this publication.”
  
• Signage must also display the MUCFC logo. Request logo file

Definitions

• Urban Forestry: Management of trees and forested areas in towns and cities with populations of 2,500 or more.
• Urban Tree Canopy: The layer of leaves and branches visible from above, serving as a key indicator of forest coverage.
  
• Public Land: Land supported by public tax dollars, including property owned by local governments, school systems, state, or federal agencies.

​Questions?

Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the MUCFC Grants Chair listed on the application form. For more information, contact Dan Coy at daniel.coy@maryland.gov.