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Committee approves county application to DNR urban forestry grant to replace ash trees, $50,000 project
Summary
The Parks and Culture Committee authorized Milwaukee County Parks to apply for and accept a Wisconsin DNR Urban and Community Forestry Grant that would provide $25,000 toward a $50,000 reforestation effort; the county would provide the equivalent of $25,000 in labor. The motion carried 7-0.
The committee voted unanimously to authorize Milwaukee County Parks to apply for and accept a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Grant to support tree purchases and reforestation projects across county parks.
Peter Brandt, Director of Operations for Milwaukee County Parks, said the department is seeking a $50,000 project under the DNR program. If awarded, DNR would contribute $25,000 and Milwaukee County would provide $25,000 in matching resources largely in the form of labor and in-kind services. The work is intended to mitigate emerald ash borer losses, improve species diversity and expand tree canopy in targeted parks.
Brandt identified targeted planting sites including Greenfield Park, Estabrook, Sherman Park, Nash Park and Clark Square and said the forestry and natural areas team would coordinate planting with community groups. The DNR funding would support partner engagement and pay for trees and planting-related supplies; the program would run from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 of the following year if funded.
Supervisor Martinez moved the recommendation for adoption; the roll-call vote was recorded as 7 ayes, 0 noes. Committee members asked for follow-up on specific neighborhood scopes and whether Clark Square was included; Parks staff said they would confirm scope details and report back to the committee.
