In an announcement celebrated across communities, the City of San Diego has secured a whopping $10 million federal grant to improve San Diego's urban forest with the planting and preservation of thousands of trees. This funds endeavor not only supports the city's Climate Action Plan goals, but also paves the way for transforming historically disadvantaged communities.
This grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, is part of a nationwide effort to distribute $1 billion to cities across the nation. Selected through a fiercely competitive process, this financial boost will allow San Diego authorities to work together towards the ambitious goal of planting 100,000 new trees by 2035, according to the City of San Diego.
Welcoming the news, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed his gratitude to the Biden-Harris Administration for their investment in the city's future, stating that the funds will help in “making San Diego a more sustainable and equitable City for all.”
These funds will specifically be used for the City's "Ready, Set, Grow San Diego" program, which seeks to address climate action goals and promote tree equity. The City plans to conduct extensive community outreach, engaging residents in planning and participating in the project. Activities funded through this grant will include planting trees, expanding wells, and removing tree grates.
According to Brian Widener, City Forester for the City of San Diego, thousands of trees will be planted thanks to this federal funding, mostly in historically underserved communities. This is no minor feat, as numerous benefits stem from maintaining healthy urban forests. Among them, cleaner air, improved public health outcomes, reduced crime, and lower average temperatures stand as a testament to the powerful role of trees in revitalizing communities.
“Trees provide shade, ecosystem services, and a host of other benefits to make a greener and more livable San Diego!” Widener stated, emphasizing the transformative power of green spaces.
San Diego's Chief Sustainability Officer, Shelby Busó, also highlighted the significance of this federal grant in achieving climate equity goals, noting that trees are vital players in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions.
With more than 8,400 trees to be planted in the coming years, the city's disadvantaged communities can now look forward to a brighter, greener, and more equitable tomorrow.
