The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum will use a five-year, $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service to strengthen Nebraska’s urban forest infrastructure in disadvantaged communities across the state. Made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act, the award will support tree planting, maintenance and removal, which will help combat extreme heat and climate change and increase equitable access to trees and their benefits. The funding will also spark workforce development by increasing the number of certified arborists and other tree care professionals in Nebraska. The arboretum has more than 45 years of experience providing green infrastructure, technical, educational and grant assistance to rural and urban communities. Hanna Pinneo is executive director of the arboretum.
