Oregon Dept. of Forestry announces historic funding boost for equity in urban and community forestry

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Oregon Department of Forestry seeks to fund projects that improve urban and community forests in areas of Oregon that need it the most.

ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry Program received $26.6 million from the Inflation Reduction Act through the U.S. Forest Service.

Out of this, $10 million will be awarded to the nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, and $12.5 million will be available for all eligible entities in Oregon. This opportunity promotes equal access to the benefits of trees and aims to get more people involved in tree planting and comprehensive urban forest management.

“This is going to be a game-changer for Oregon,” said Scott Altenhoff, ODF’s UCF Program Manager. “This is the largest and most significant urban and community forestry investment in Oregon’s history.”

ODF's UCF Program officially issued the call for proposals for all eligible entities on May 31. The application portal and resources related to this funding opportunity can be found on the UCF subaward program webpage.

Proposals can be submitted starting, July 1, through Sept. 30 at 11:59 p.m. Project funding will range from $10,000 to $750,000 and can be spent over the next four years. The ODF UCF Program can provide support to organizations with project development, grant writing, and performance reporting. 

Altenhoff said that he hopes these subaward programs will support groups who have been historically less likely to apply for grants. “We are excited to empower communities who typically lack access to federal resources. We want to meet communities and organizations where they are at and provide support for their good ideas and projects.”

Hilary Olivos-Rood, ODF UCF Grant Program Administrator, suggests contacting the ODF UCF Program staff if you are unsure whether your program or project proposal meets the eligibility requirements, would like support with proposal development, or need help navigating SAM.gov registration. "The UCF Program will support communities that receive awards in many ways, and UCF program staff are ready to provide assistance and guidance from start to finish."

Olivos-Rood encourages all interested entities, grant networks, and community-centric organizations to share this unique funding opportunity. Engaged communication and outreach will be essential for this new program’s success.