The "Trees for Indigenous Nations" grant program, funded through the Inflation Reduction Act's Urban and Community Forestry Grants, aims to enhance community forestry for tribal communities in Montana. Administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), this initiative seeks to increase green space access, boost tree canopy coverage, support climate adaptation, and improve air and water quality in tribal areas. The program promotes long-term sustainability in community forestry through capacity building, education, and the integration of cultural practices.
Eligible projects include various forestry activities such as tree planting for urban restoration, biodiversity, habitat management, and the restoration of culturally important species. Other allowable initiatives cover climate resilience, erosion control, and sustainable water systems. Outreach, education, workforce training, and community engagement efforts are also supported, alongside the development of culturally interpretive programs, tree orchards, and nurseries for significant species. Applications should present a project concept that demonstrates eligibility and potential impact, with selected proposals advancing to a detailed development phase in collaboration with DNRC staff.
The program will provide individual subawards ranging from $50,000 to $150,000, covering up to three years. A total of $1,000,000 in funding is available, and no matching funds are required. Project concepts can be submitted through the Submittable platform, with a deadline of November 15, 2024. Evaluation criteria include organizational capacity, project management, and budget components, with an emphasis on the potential community benefits.
Successful applicants will collaborate with DNRC to finalize their proposals from December 2024 to January 2025, with subaward agreements developed by March 2025. Biannual reporting is required to track progress, and grant funds are provided on a reimbursement basis for eligible expenses like personnel costs, supplies, and professional services. Unallowable expenses include capital equipment, entertainment, and certain promotional items.
