City of Rochester to Plant More Than 1,000 Trees and Expand Urban Forest Through State Grants
The City of Rochester has received more than $928,000 in grant funding from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support tree planting and maintenance projects that will strengthen Rochester's urban forest, improve neighborhood resilience and expand access to the benefits trees provide throughout the community.
The funding includes a $500,000 DNR ReLeaf Community Forestry Grant and a $428,450 DNR Shade Tree Program Bonding Grant.
"We are grateful for the state's investment in Rochester's urban forest," said City Forester Jeff Haberman. "Trees are one of the most valuable investments we can make in our community. This funding allows us to care for our existing trees while expanding tree canopy in areas that need it most. A healthy urban forest helps improve air quality, manage stormwater, reduce urban heat and create healthier, more livable neighborhoods for residents today and for future generations."
The ReLeaf Community Forestry Grant will support pruning and maintenance of boulevard trees throughout Rochester. Regular tree care helps improve tree health, increase resilience to severe weather, extend the lifespan of trees and maintain safe clearance along streets and sidewalks.
The Shade Tree Program Bonding Grant will fund the planting of approximately 1,025 trees in public rights-of-way in Rochester neighborhoods identified by the U.S. Forest Service as having lower tree canopy coverage and greater need for investment. The project will help expand tree canopy and increase access to the environmental, economic and health benefits trees provide.
Trees provide a wide range of benefits that help offset the impacts of urban development and impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots and buildings. They help manage stormwater runoff, improve air quality, reduce urban heat, lower energy costs, store carbon and support physical and mental health. Through these projects, The City of Rochester will continue investing in a healthier, more resilient and sustainable community while preserving and enhancing its urban forest for future generations.
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