CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Mayor Luke Feeney announced this week that the City of Chillicothe has been awarded a $25,000 “Canopy Restoration” grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Forestry. This grant will allow the city to preserve and expand its existing tree canopy in city parks and neighborhoods.
Mayor Feeney stated, “Our Chillicothe Tree Commission members work very hard to protect and grow our tree canopy. This grant is a great way to show our appreciation for their work while furthering my administration’s vision of a greener community.” The grant will be used for community beautification programs, neighborhood ward plantings, and City park green space enhancements.
The ODNR, Division of Forestry grant is a 1:1 match, meaning that the city must devote $50,000 in order to receive the $25,000 reimbursement. The City of Chillicothe’s portion of the agreement will include the typical $15,000 annual tree commission budget, as well as in-kind contributions from laborers, administrative staff, and Tree Commission Members.
The Canopy Restoration grant seeks to support canopy restoration by addressing challenges in neighborhoods with limited tree coverage. Mayor Feeney expressed his excitement in supporting the Tree Commission’s work and sharing this wonderful news.