-Editorial
The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) has announced the launch of its Public Green Space Grant Program, a key initiative aimed at reducing urban heat and beautifying local neighborhoods through tree planting. The program, which is in its second year, offers a total of $525,000 in funding to support tree planting projects across the region.
The grants, available to cities, counties, special districts, nonprofits, and community organizations, will provide individual awards of up to $35,000. Applications are open from February 26, 2025, until May 5, 2025. Funded projects must be completed by December 5, 2025.
“These grants help create cooler, more livable communities,” said IID Board Chairwoman Gina Dockstader. “By partnering with public agencies, nonprofits, and community groups, we’re investing in a greener future for our communities.”
IID Director JB Hamby highlighted the program’s broader impact. “The Tree for All program reinvests in our communities by providing relief from extreme heat and making our neighborhoods better places to live and play. Trees are critical for cooling our communities in hot summers and make spending more time outdoors even better.”
The program is part of IID’s larger Tree for All initiative, which aims to plant trees in public spaces to reduce temperatures and promote environmental sustainability. In 2024, IID awarded funding for 18 projects spanning 40 sites in the Imperial and Coachella valleys, improving community spaces with shade and environmental enhancements.
IID Director Karin Eugenio emphasized the environmental benefits of tree planting. “Planting trees doesn’t just make outdoor spaces more enjoyable—it also helps conserve energy by lowering demand for air conditioning. This program is a win-win for both people and the environment.”
Urban greening projects, such as the planting of shade trees, provide significant benefits, including cooling city temperatures by up to 40°F, reducing energy demand for air conditioning, and enhancing public spaces that promote well-being and quality of life.
Eligible projects must focus on planting shade trees to expand green spaces and strengthen urban forests, with special consideration given to projects that enhance parks, recreational spaces, and underserved communities. While matching funds are not required, applicants that contribute cost-sharing funds will receive bonus points during the review process.
Applications will be evaluated by an IID grant review committee, and the deadline for submission is May 5, 2025. For more information and to apply, visit www.iid.com/treeforallgrants or contact treeforallgrants@iid.com.
For any questions, call 1-760-428-3306.
The Public Green Space Grant Program is funded through IID’s Public Benefits Program and builds on the success of the Tree for All initiative, which has provided thousands of trees to residential customers since 2022.
