Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is an interagency program directed by the Environmental Protection Agency and co-sponsored by many agencies, including the US Forest Service, for the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. EPA funds administered through the Northeastern Area will support projects that implement high-priority remedial actions within Forest Service authorities. Successful projects will address near-shore health, nonpoint source pollution, and toxic substances that impact water quality in identified Areas of Concern.
Cover Letter with background and instructions.
Request for Proposal—Includes instructions for these program areas:
- Mitigate Emerald Ash Borer(EAB) Impacts-Ash tree replacement with non-host species in urban EAB quarantine areas to protect and restore biodiversity and water quality in targeted sub-watersheds, and to reduce soil erosion and nutrient runoff (esp. phosphorus).
- Reduce Toxic Substances in Brownfield Sites–Plant site-appropriate trees and vegetation to remediate certain toxic substances and restore green infrastructure that will reduce storm-water runoff..
- Reduce Runoff from Degraded Sites through Green Infrastructure – Protect and restore watersheds through improved green infrastructure using trees and other vegetation to reduce storm water runoff on degraded sites on non- federal lands.
Application Form—Includes template for project submittal.
Funded projects for reference
Please check with the appropriate state forestry agency for deadline and process information. Click here for a list of state foresters.
Making news: A primer for traditional and social media success
The Northeastern Area’s Making news webinar targeted Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grantees, providing a framework and path for our partners to get the word out about the great work they do for the health of the Great Lakes. Though the webinar focuses on the niche of GLRI grants and partners, the methods and many of the messages for garnering media interest apply to a wide diversity of urban forestry successes.