by Kevin Sayers (DNR)
Be on the lookout this fall and next spring for some new trees along streets and parks in 31 Michigan communities. They will share $105,000 in grants awarded this year to complete 33 tree-planting projects around the state.
The trees, to be planted along streets and in parks and other public spaces, come courtesy of a program sponsored by the DTE Foundation and administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and nonprofit tree organization ReLeaf Michigan.
Individual grants range in size from $600 for a tree-planting project in St. Clair County’s Lynn Township, to $4,000 awards in multiple communities from the Detroit area and in Grand Traverse and Marquette counties. See the complete list of grant winners.
“The DTE Foundation looks forward to seeing how our grants and support come to fruition in our communities through these newly planted trees,” said Lynette Dowler, president of the DTE Energy Foundation. “We’re dedicated to protecting, preserving and expanding our state’s natural resources, and our partners like the DNR and ReLeaf Michigan are integral in this mission.”
Project proposals are solicited annually from eligible partners around the state. The next opportunity to apply is summer 2023.
The DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry program helps municipalities and other organizations promote and manage trees and forests by providing education, financial and technical assistance. To learn about the UCF program, visit Michigan.gov/UCF.
ReLeaf Michigan is a statewide tree organization that works to educate the public on the value of trees and how to properly select, plant and maintain them. Communities and organizations interested in volunteer tree plantings or educational events should visit ReleafMichigan.org, email ReLeaf Michigan or call 800-642-7353.
The DTE Foundation is the philanthropic arm of DTE Energy. For more information visit DTE Energy Foundation online.