More trees will be added to the existing tree canopy in different areas of Chillicothe thanks to a State-awarded grant.
Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney on Wednesday announced the city has been awarded a $25-thousand Canopy Restoration Grant through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry.
The funding will be used to preserve and expand the number of trees throughout city parks and neighborhoods with limited tree coverage.
The mayor said use of the funds will range from community beautification programs and neighborhood ward plantings to the enhancement of green spaces in the city parks.
“Our Chillicothe Tree Commission members work very hard to protect and grow out tree canopy,” said Feeney. “When we saw this grant opportunity, we knew it would be a great way to show our appreciation for the work that they do while furthering my administration’s vision of a greener community."
The Canopy Restoration grant is a 1:1 match, meaning $25-thousand will be reimbursed after the City devotes $50-thousand. The City’s portion of the agreement will include the typical $15-thousand annual tree commission budget, and in-kind contributions from City laborers, administrative staff and tree commission members.