The USDA Forest Service is investing $325,000 to support 4 local restoration projects on nonfederal lands in Minnesota. The funding is provided through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) under an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

This year’s grantees are working locally to support healthy forests in Minnesota. Healthy forests and trees contribute to the health of the Great Lakes and provide immeasurable benefits to Minnesotans including cleaner air and drinking water, wildlife habitat, employment opportunities and a robust economy. Access to trees and natural areas also enhances physical and mental wellbeing and makes communities more resilient.

Collectively, the projects funded in Minnesota through this year’s GLRI grants are estimated to plant 12,101 trees and shrubs and restore 122 acres.

The Forest Service is proud to support the following projects in Minnesota with Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Funding:

• Lake County – $200,000: Restoring Riparian Forests in Priority Lake Superior Watersheds Impacted by Spruce Budworm
• Lake County – $50,000: Coordinated Management of Invasive Plant Species in Lake County, Minnesota
• Cook County – $25,000: Collaborative Management of Non-Native Invasive Species in NE Minnesota
• Stewardship Network – $50,000: Boosting Invasive Species Control Work in the South St. Louis County CISMA

“We are thrilled to provide this support for local organizations doing great work on nonfederal lands in the state. The work of the Forest Service extends beyond the boundaries of federal lands. We provide support to states, Tribes, local governments and private forest landowners to protect, conserve and manage their forests, because no matter who owns them, we all benefit from healthy forests and trees.” said Bob Lueckel, USDA Forest Service Deputy Regional Forester.