The Maine Forest Service grants for community forestry projects are available under the Urban and Community Forestry and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation Grant Programs. Through Project Canopy, a program by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Maine Forest Service, a total of $390,000 in grants will be offered, comprising $250,000 in Project Canopy Assistance grants and $140,000 in Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants.

These grants aim to support projects in the following categories:

Project Canopy Assistance Planning and Education

• Maximum Award: $20,000
• Projects focus on sustainable community forestry management and increasing awareness of the benefits of trees and forests.

Project Canopy Planting and Maintenance

• Maximum Award: $15,000
• Projects enhance community health and livability through proper tree planting and maintenance.

Project Canopy Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation

• Maximum Award: $20,000
• Projects address mitigation efforts due to emerald ash borer infestation in communities that are most severely impacted.
• Projects must be completed by January 31, 2028.

 Eligibility and Workshop Information:

• Participating in the grant workshop is mandatory to apply for the 2026 Project Canopy Assistance or Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants.
• The virtual grant workshop is scheduled for October 29, 2026, from 1–3 pm, covering grant writing, project development, sustainable community forest management, and grant administration for both programs.

 Application Deadline:

• Grant applications must be submitted to the MFS by 11:59 pm on Thursday, December 17, 2026.
• Project Canopy Assistance and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants require a 50% match from the grant recipient in cash or in-kind services.

Funding Source:

• The USDA Forest Service Community Forestry Assistance Program funds Project Canopy assistance and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants.

 Learn More and Apply:

• For complete grant application and workshop information, visit the Project Canopy website. 
• Contact Jan Ames Santerre for more details:
• Phone: 207-287-4987
• Email: jan.santerre@maine.gov.