4.1 Tree Study/Grant Opportunity

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DEPARTMENT OF 2021 Shade Tree Program NATURAL RESOURCES Bonding Grants Grant Overview The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources welcomes applications from local units of government within Minnesota that use strategic actions to reduce the impacts of emerald ash borer(EAB)on community forests. Eligible Activities • Removal and replanting of shade trees on public land to provide environmental benefits • Replacement of trees on public land lost to forest pests,disease,or storm • Tree planting on public land to establish a more diverse community forest better able to withstand disease and forest pests Any tree planted with this grant must be a climate-adapted species to Minnesota.This includes but is not limited to Minnesota native trees,and regionally native species that are growing zone-appropriate. Eligible Applicants All cities,counties,townships,and park and recreation boards in cities of the first class are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to: • Applicants with a known emerald ash borer infestation within their boundaries for removal and replacement of ash trees • Projects removing and replacing ash trees that pose significant public safety concerns • Projects that benefit underserved populations and areas of concern for environmental justice Funding The DNR has$1 million available in general obligation bond dollars to fund projects managing forest pest and disease(with priority given to EAB)through community forestry activities on public lands. No minimum dollar amount is required.The maximum amount funded is$100,000.00. Funding will be allocated through a competitive grant process with review by a committee representing content and community specialists with regional knowledge. DNR expects to announce selected grantees by Monday,April 12,2021. If selected,grantees may only incur eligible expenditures after the grant contract is fully executed and the grant has reached its effective date. Match Requirements and Explanation No matching funds are required. If match is provided,it cannot be met with services or funds derived from other grants funds from State of Minnesota. There are two kinds of match funding,cash match and in-kind match.A cash match is a direct project expense provided by a grantee as a contribution to the project;i.e.,cash expenditures for costs related to the specific project.This can include project-related staff salaries if they are dedicated to the project, consultant's fees or contractor expenses,equipment rentals and travel costs. In-kind match funds are materials and services,salaries and wages(including fringe benefits)being used that are not project- dedicated,space or utilities,equipment and/or technical assistance provided by the grantee or donated by a third party specifically for the project. Page 2 of 8 February,2021