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Intent to Apply for USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forest Program GrantCity of Dubuque City Council Meeting Action Items # 08. Copyrighted June 20, 2023 ITEM TITLE: Intent to Apply for USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forest Program Grant SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council approve the application for the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forest Program Grant. SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File; Approve DISPOSITION: ATTACHMENTS: Description Type MVM Memo City Manager Memo Staff Memo Staff Memo Grant Application USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry NOFO USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Grant Supporting Documentation Supporting Documentation THE C Dubuque DUjIBQTE WAWca 914 Masterpiece on the Mississippi YP pp aoo�•o 13 z0i7*20*�oi9 TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager SUBJECT: Intent to Apply for USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forest Program Grant DATE: June 15, 2023 Leisure Services Manager Marie Ware is recommending City Council approve the application for the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forest Program Grant. I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval. v Mic ael C. Van Milligen MCVM:sv Attachment cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager Marie Ware, Leisure Services Manager Jennifer Larson, Chief Financial Officer Nathan Kelleher, Budget/Financial Analyst Teri Goodmann, Director of Strategic Partnerships Gina Bell, Sustainability Coordinator Steve Fehsal, Park Division Manager Anderson Sainci, Director Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support Dubuque THE CITY OF E-E , -2013 Taste icce on the Mississippi201717*� 12019 �01� TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager FROM: Marie L. Ware, Leisure Services Manager SUBJECT: Intent to Apply for USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forest Program Grant DATE: 6/15/2023 INTRODUCTION The purpose of this memorandum is to request approval of the application for the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forest Program Grant. DISCUSSION Dubuque seeks to increase its tree canopy cover to grow from 26.2 to 40 percent. To support that goal, USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry resources will help the City plant 6,600 trees on public and private property in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02 over the five-year project period. The number of trees proposed was identified in Dubuque's Climate Action Plan to realize its tree canopy goal in the targeted neighborhoods. Key activities of the Branching Out Dubuque initiative will include: 1. Establish baseline data: Using PlanIT Geo's TreePlotter software tool and EarthDefine's geospatial data, the City will identify areas in the distressed target area where tree canopy cover is insufficient. Tree planting will be prioritized in zones with low existing canopy cover, available right-of-way, poor air quality, stormwater management needs, high population density, elevated asthma rates, and health concerns. Likely tree planting sites will include the front yards on private property, the right-of-way along major boulevards (Central Avenue, John F. Kennedy Road), parks, churches, schools, and redevelopment areas. 2. Outreach and marketing: The City and its partner Dubuque Trees Forever will develop an outreach and marketing campaign to communicate with low-income and minority residents in Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Letters, door hangers, social media, web sites, and other tools will alert property owners about the opportunity to have a tree planted in their yard. All written materials will be available in English, Spanish, and Marshallese languages. 3. Private property owner sign-up: Residential property owners in the project zone will have an opportunity to opt -in to the free tree planting program. Homeowner agreements will be developed that fully describe participants' tree maintenance responsibilities. Businesses in the target area will also be incentivized to grow trees on their lots. Free trees will be available for commercial property owners exceeding their minimum planting requirements. 4. Tree procurement: The City will conduct a procurement process to acquire 1-2'/2" caliper trees annually over a five year -period. All trees will include a one-year warranty. A diverse selection of tree types will be available to ensure survival, good growth, and viability. Appropriate tree and site selection will align with Goal 2, Strategy 4 of the Iowa State Forest Action Plan. 5. Tree planting: Each spring and fall, 1,320 trees will be planted and mulched within the target area (6,600 total), with a preference for installations on private property. Dubuque Trees Forever members, civic organizations, and other volunteers will support tree installations. 6. Short-term maintenance: Following planting, trees on public property will receive 10- 15 gallons of water per week between May and September using gators and other leased watering equipment. At the end of the short-term maintenance period (two years), project team members will prune the trees. Dubuque will partner with the Teen Resiliency Corps to hire five underserved youth every summer during the project period to support watering and pruning activities. This employment will engage youth and young adults in meaningful service, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. These teens primarily live within the neighborhoods that will be served. 7. Resident training: As part of the homeowner agreement, residents will participate in urban forestry training. This program will provide information on tree maintenance, including watering needs, mulching, and proper pruning. 8. Long-term maintenance: The City will be responsible for long-term maintenance of trees planted on public property. These responsibilities include ongoing pruning, preventive care, disease and insect treatment, limb collection, and dead tree removal. The grant would hire for its five-year timeframe one limited term FTE (1 FTE) that would lead and oversee all activities of the grant. Anticipated Amount: $1,499,978.00 Match Required: No Match Funding Source: No match is required. A match waiver was requested as a part of the grant. Application Due Date: 6/1/2023 Anticipated Notification Date: 9/29/2023 Anticipated Receipt of money: 12/31/2024 Departments Involved: Leisure Services, Sustainability, City Manager, Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support 2 GRANT OBJECTIVE The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry Program is offering grants up to $50 million to support the planning and implementation of nature -based solutions to ensure a resilient and equitable tree canopy. Established through the Inflation Reduction Act, this is the only dedicated federal urban forest program that will provide direct funding to address the economic, social and environmental challenges that underserved, and economically distressed communities are experiencing due to a low urban tree canopy. There is not a future opportunity to reapply for these funds, at this time. GOAL(S) ADDRESSED Comprehensive Plan: Environmental Integrity Outcome(s) Promote a healthy urban forest and native plantings Council Goal: Sustainable Environment: Preserving and Enhancing Natural Resources Outcome(s) Reduce the community's carbon footprint (50% by 2030) Value(s) Creating a more livable, viable and equitable community ACTION STEP I respectfully request approval of the apply for USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forest Program Grant. CC: Jennifer Larson, Chief Financial Officer Nathan Kelleher, Budget/Financial Analyst Teri Goodmann, Director of Strategic Partnerships Gina Bell, Sustainability Coordinator Steve Fehsal, Park Division Manager Anderson Sainci, Director of Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support PROJECT NARRATIVE TEMPLATE NOTE: Do NOT rename or rearrange the sections in this template. INSTRUCTIONS: Edit this document and complete each of the numbered sections below. Once your protect narrative is completed, save this file as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file and upload it to the Grant Portal under the aaaroariate Proiect Narrative document workflow step. The text in this narrative must be single spaced typed in standard typeface (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri) with no smaller than 12-point font. Do NOT modify the page layout, margins, header, or footer in the document as each page must be numbered and have one -inch margins. NOTE: This completed project narrative document is NOT to exceed 7 single spaced pages. 1. Project Scope Alignment: Describe the issues this project is seeking to address and how the project will contribute to the goals in this funding opportunity, including congressional, Justice40, State Forest Action Plans, and Ten -Year Urban and Community Forestry Action Plan (2016-2026) priorities. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Dubuque (population 59,119) is Iowa's oldest city. Dubuque was established as a fur -trading post and mining community, and later flourished as a manufacturing hub. Over the last 100 years, Dubuque has seen its economy shift from chiefly manufacturing to the tourism, retail, health care, education, and financial service sectors. Dubuque now serves as the employment center for the tri-state region of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The community is ethnically -diverse, with a minority population of 13.1%. Between 2017 and 2021, the median household income in Dubuque was $58,691 (compared to $65,429 in Iowa) and 12.3% of residents lived below the poverty line (compared to 11.0% statewide). Dubuque's Washington (Census Tract 1), Point (Census Tract 3), North End (Census Tract 5), and West End (Census Tract 12.02) neighborhoods, located within the project area, are significantly more diverse and low-income than the city as a whole. Minorities comprise 18.3%, 14.9%, 31.0%, and 14.6% of Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02, respectively. Median household incomes are 30-50% lower in these neighborhoods ($44,799 in Census Tract 1, $47,750 in Census Tract 3, $36,047 in Census Tract 5, and $35,679 in Census Tract 12.02) than the national level ($69,021). Poverty is also significantly higher than the United States rate (12.6%) in Census Tracts 1 (20.5%), 3 (16.2%), 5 (24.0%), and 12.02 (16.9%). The proposed Branching Out Dubuque initiative seeks to connect urban forestry with the community's sustainability, equity, and health goals. In 2013, Dubuque adopted a Climate Action Plan to improve its environmental, economic, and social resilience. In the 2020 update to the Climate Action Plan, it predicts that by 2050, Dubuque will likely see: • Average annual temperatures increase by 6+ percent; • 18+ days above 95 degrees Fahrenheit every year; • Air conditioning costs surge by 150+ percent; • Average rainfall rise by 7+ percent; and • 10+ percent more heavy precipitation events. Currently, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources measure Dubuque's tree canopy cover at 29.8%. American Forest's Tree Equity Score tool indicates that only 5% of neighborhoods in the community have adequate tree cover. Exactly 43% of residents live in an unfavorable heat IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 1 anomaly (1.25 degrees above average urbanized area temperatures.) An estimated 261,884 trees are needed citywide to achieve sufficient tree cover. Eastern Iowa also is recovering from the loss of significant tree canopy cover following the spread of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) insects in 2015. The City is working alongside the nonprofit Dubuque Trees Forever to replace a large quantity of ash trees lost to the invasive pest. The Climate Action Plan calls for replanting trees lost to EAB with improved diversity. Urban & Community Forestry investment will enable Dubuque to address the following issues through increased tree planting: • Lost canopy: Since 2015, Dubuque has had approximately 1,500 trees removed due EAB infestation on public land. While the City replants trees annually, that effort has not kept pace with its loss of green infrastructure. • Greenhouse gas emissions: Dubuque seeks to curb 50% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and store carbon in wood, which helps to reduce greenhouse gases. • Urban heat island effect: Canopy trees lower temperatures by shading buildings, asphalt, and concrete. They deflect radiation from the sun and release moisture into the air. • Air pollution: Shade trees reduce pollution and return oxygen to the atmosphere. In addition to carbon dioxide, trees' leaves or needles absorb pollutants, such as ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and some particulate matter. • Stormwater mana ems: Urban trees in Dubuque filter water and reduce runoff, which carries pollution to surface waterbodies such as streams, wetlands, and rivers. • Energy costs: As natural screens, trees can insulate homes and businesses from extreme temperatures, keep properties cool, and reduce air conditioning utility bills. By planting shade trees on sunny exposures, residents and businesses can save up to 50 percent on hot - day energy bills. • Traffic calming: People drive more slowly trees create the illusion of narrower streets. and carefully through tree -lined streets because • Street maintenance: Shaded streets last longer and require less pavement maintenance, reducing long-term costs. Canopy diminishes pavement fatigue, cracking, rutting, and other damage. • Property values: Trees are sound investments, for businesses and residents alike. Sustainable landscapes can increase property values up to 37 percent. • Public safety: Trees and landscaping reduce the incidence of theft, vandalism, and violence. • Health: Neighborhoods with generous canopies of trees are good for mental health and physical well-being. • Quality of life: Greater contact with nature correlates with lower levels of stress. The proposed project meets USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry program goals identified in the Inflation Reduction Act. Dubuque seeks to "protect, enhance, and expand equitable urban tree canopy cover to maximize community access to human health, social, ecological, and economic benefits." All project activities will occur in Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02, which benefit underserved populations. The City's urban forestry activities meet the goals of the Biden Administration's Executive Order on IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 2 Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, as well as the Justice40 Initiative. The target area's minority population (21.7%) includes significant numbers of Black (10.8%), Marshallese/Pacific Islander (3.5%), and Hispanic (3.2%) residents. This downtown area experiences high levels of economic distress. Within Dubuque, minorities and people with lower income often live in places that have less tree canopy cover. Tree planting efforts will be planned in disadvantaged neighborhoods experiencing persistent poverty, racial segregation, and substandard housing. Revitalization efforts are designed to overcome inequality and improve quality of life. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative aligns with the 2020 Iowa State Forest Action Plan. Iowa ranked I01h in the nation for urban and community tree canopy loss in a recent Forest Service study. Planting 6,600 trees in Dubuque supports the following community forestry goal and strategies of the Iowa State Forest Action Plan: • Goal 2: Strategically Grow Iowa's Forests o Strategy 1: Decrease forest fragmentation and habitat loss o Strategy 2: Expand public and private forest land o Strategy 3: Identify plantable sites to achieve multiple benefits o Strategy 4: Encourage appropriate species and site selection o Strategy 5: Facilitate the use of incentive programs o Strategy 6: Use trees and forests to grow Iowa's economy and improve the health and well-being of Iowans o Strategy 7: Make use of forest cover to improve soil, air, and water quality Building tree cover canopy in Dubuque also supports the USDA Forest Service's Ten -Year Urban Forestry Action Plan. Project activities complement the Action Plan's goals of managing urban forests to improve health and wellness (Goal 2), promote equity (Goal 3), and foster sustainability and resilience (Goal 4). 2. Implementation Strategy/Methodology/Timeline: Provide a detailed explanation of the proposed approach, methodology, operations strategies, project schedule/timeline with goals/milestones, expected accomplishments or measurable outcomes, and project assessment/evaluation methods. Dubuque seeks to increase its tree canopy cover to grow from 26.2 to 40 percent. To support that goal, USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry resources will help the City plant 6,600 trees on public and private property in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02 over the project period. The number of trees proposed was identified in Dubuque's Climate Action Plan to realize its tree canopy goal in the targeted neighborhoods. Key activities of the Branching Out Dubuque initiative will include: 1. Establish baseline data: Using PlanIT Geo's TreePlotter software tool and EarthDefine's geospatial data, the City will identify areas in the distressed target area where tree canopy cover is insufficient. Tree planting will be prioritized in zones with low existing canopy cover, available right-of-way, poor air quality, stormwater management needs, high population density, elevated asthma rates, and health concerns. Likely tree planting sites will include the front yards on private property, the right-of-way along major boulevards (Central Avenue, John F. Kennedy Road), parks, churches, schools, and redevelopment areas. 2. Outreach and marketing: The City and its partner Dubuque Trees Forever will develop an IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 3 outreach and marketing campaign to communicate with low-income and minority residents in Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Letters, door hangers, social media, web sites, and other tools will alert property owners about the opportunity to have a tree planted in their yard. All written materials will be available in English, Spanish, and Marshallese languages. 3. Private property owner sign-up: Residential property owners in the project zone will have an opportunity to opt -in to the free tree planting program. Homeowner agreements will be developed that fully describe participants' tree maintenance responsibilities. Businesses in the target area will also be incentivized to grow trees on their lots. Free trees will be available for commercial property owners exceeding their minimum planting requirements. 4. Tree procurement: The City will conduct a procurement process to acquire 1-2'/2" caliper trees annually over a five year -period. All trees will include a one-year warranty. A diverse selection of tree types will be available to ensure survival, good growth, and viability. Appropriate tree and site selection will align with Goal 2, Strategy 4 of the Iowa State Forest Action Plan. 5. Tree planting: Each spring and fall, 1,320 trees will be planted and mulched within the target area (6,600 total), with a preference for installations on private property. Dubuque Trees Forever members, civic organizations, and other volunteers will support tree installations. 6. Short-term maintenance: Following planting, trees on public property will receive 10-15 gallons of water per week between May and September using gators and other leased watering equipment. At the end of the short-term maintenance period (two years), project team members will prune the trees. Dubuque will partner with the Teen Resiliency Corps to hire five underserved youth every summer during the project period to support watering and pruning activities. This employment will engage youth and young adults in meaningful service, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. These teens primarily live within the neighborhoods that will be served. 7. Resident training: As part of the homeowner agreement, residents will participate in urban forestry training. This program will provide information on tree maintenance, including watering needs, mulching, and proper pruning. 8. Long-term maintenance: The City will be responsible for long-term maintenance of trees planted on public property. These responsibilities include ongoing pruning, preventive care, disease and insect treatment, limb collection, and dead tree removal. A project schedule with major goals and milestones follows: Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Goal/Milestone Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 23 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Project kick-off (USDA Forest Service contract TreePlotter assessment (develop baseline data Community engagement activities (letters, door hangers, social media, web site, other tools Seek residential and commercial opt -in tree IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 4 planting requests) Hire underserved youth to support tree maintenance Teen Resiliency Corps) Plant trees 1,320 per ear Urban forestry maintenance (watering andpruning) Resident training (urban tree care program) Closeout final report) The anticipated outputs and outcomes of the project include: Outputs Outcomes • Community engagement • Increased awareness of economic, environmental, materials developed and social benefits of urban trees • 6,600 community trees planted • Increased tree canopy cover in Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and . Improved equity in distressed neighborhoods 12.02 . Carbon storage and fewer greenhouse gas emissions • Air and water pollution reductions • Decreased temperatures and energy costs • Traffic calming and less street maintenance • Rising property values • Falling crime rates • Better mental health and quality of life • 5 underserved youth trained and • Job skills and interest in horticultural careers employed every summer to help maintain urban forest • 2,000 residents trained through • Increased capacity for long-term maintenance of urban forestry program trees on private property The City will prepare a final report evaluating the project's success. The TreePlotter software tool will enable Dubuque to establish baseline conditions, assess canopy cover increases, and measure key environmental and economic benefits including greenhouse gas emission reductions, air quality improvements, estimated temperature decreases, stormwater management gains, and energy savings. Dubuque will also track the volume of people contacted through outreach and marketing activities, the sum of residential and commercial property owner program opt -ins, the quantity and location of trees planted, and the number and hours of underserved youth engaged in urban forestry maintenance. 3. Capability and Capacity: Describe how each contributing organization is suited for (mission) and qualified to deliver the project. Provide the names, titles, and organization affiliation and specific roles of key personnel for the project. Include qualifications and experience of key personnel to implement, monitor, and assess/report project outcome. The City has conducted programs similar to the proposed Branching Out Dubuque initiative, IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 5 gaining extensive experience engaging with the community on urban forestry issues and providing opportunites for residents to get involved: • Dubuque includes funding in its operating and capital improvement budgets for annual tree planting and replacement. Trees are planted in the spring and fall seasons with the help of Dubuque Trees Forever. • Dubuque has been designated as Tree City USA for over 20 years. • A 50150 Tree Share Program provides opportunities for residents to pay half the cost of a tree planted on private property. • Dubuque participated in the America in Bloom program in 2022, which encourages the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements. • The City partners with Dubuque Trees Forever to hold an Arbor Day event as well as other community activities throughout the year. Key City staff include: • Gina Bell is Dubuque's Sustainability Coordinator. She is responsible for implementing Dubuque's sustainability plan. Gina previously served as the ESPERE Program Administrator for Adelante Mujeres in Oregon, where she worked to educate and empower low-income Latina women and families. Gina holds a bachelor's degree in international studies and Spanish from Pacific University in Oregon and is fluent in Spanish. She will manage all project activities, including contracting, performance evaluation, and reporting. • Barbara Liska holds an associate degree in Golf Course Management with an emphasis on green industry. She worked for Dubuque in the greenhouse and was promoted to Assistant Horticulturalist. Her work includes maintaining landscaping in the Port of Dubuque, the Federal Building, and the Locust Street Connectors, as well as some city parks. In 2017, Barb became the City's Forestry Technician and is currently serving as the interim Urban Forester. • Anderson Sainci serves as Dubuque's Director of the Office of Shared Prosperity & Neighborhood Support. He works to implement the City's equity plan, which seeks to end generational poverty. Anderson is a graduate of the University of Dubuque where he received his bachelor's degree in business administration, as well as his master's degree in communication. He will support community engagement activities. • Steve Fehsal is Dubuque's Park Division Manager. He is responsible for the maintenance of over 1,200 acres of parks, trails, and public property. Steve previously worked as a Maintenance Supervisor for Douglas County Parks and Recreation in Gardnerville, Nevada. He holds a bachelor's degree in environmental studies from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Project activities will build on a canopy assessement of trees in the target area that Dubuque will complete in Year 1 using TreePlotter software and EarthDefine's geospatial data. Tree planting in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02 will also support the recommendations of Dubuque's 2020 Climate Action Plan. 4. Communications Plan: Share your plans for communication on the project, including plans for 1) signage acknowledging the source of funding at project locations 2) inclusion of funding information in press and promotional materials. A comprehensive communications strategy will be developed to share Branching Out Dubuque IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 6 messaging (e.g., urban forest benefits), promote free tree planting opportunities on private property, and solicit interest from residents. Media releases will be prepared and distributed to traditional media, including the newspaper, television, and area radio stations. Social media will describe opportunities to engage with the project. A web site will be developed that includes details about the initiative. Dubuque will communicate to its targeted audience (Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02) through mailings, door hangers, community newsletters, and other micro -targeting. Community partners like Dubuque Trees Forever will serve as trusted communication channels. All written materials will be available in English, Spanish, and Marshallese languages. Signage along urban boulevards in the target area will acknowledge that the Branching Out Dubuque initiative is funded by the USDA Forest Service. Press releases, social media, and the web site will also reference the agency's financial support for project activities. 5. Evidence of Disadvantaged Community Status for projects requesting Match Waiver (if applicable): Clearly describe the scope of work to be performed in disadvantaged communities, and identify online vulnerability and environmental justice equity data and/or tools referenced to support a disadvantaged community designation, (e.g., White House Council on Environmental Quality Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), EPA Environmental Justice and Screening Mapping Tool (EJScreen), EPA EnviroAtlas Interactive Map, Opportunity Zones, or other vulnerability data/tools applicable to the scope of work). Multiple tools may be used. All work must be tracked at the level that designates disadvantaged communities. Primary applicants receiving cost -match waiver approval that pass -through funding (sub -award) for work in disadvantaged communities must pass through the cost match waiver to sub-awardees performing the work. Dubuque seeks a match waiver. All tree planting will occur in downtown and other underserved areas. The White House Council on Environmental Quality's Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool identifies Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02 (in gray shading) as "disadvantaged." The entire project zone is identified as an environmental justice area. Using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's EJSCREEN tool, the project zone ranks in 94th percentile for particulate matter, in the 66th percentile for ozone, and in the 72nd percentile for air toxics respiratory risk across Iowa. Urban forestry improvements will enhance quality of life for minority and low-income residents and support the City's equity goals. Dubuque is one of the first communities in the country to adopt a local equity plan — the Dubuque Equitable Poverty Reduction and Prevention Plan. Mayor Brad Cavanagh is committed to "closing the gaps" in the community so that race does not predict one's success. Dubuque has adopted numerous equity policies and practices to challenge long-standing racial bias. The City has also created new Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support to ensure that historically -disenfranchised residents enjoy a seat at the table. Anderson Sainci, the Director of the Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support, will support efforts to engage disadvantaged individuals in tree planting. IRA - UCF Project Narrative 2023 - Page 7 Budget Applicant: City of Dubuque Project: Branching Out Dubuque initiative —planting 6,600 trees on public and private property Non -Federal Match Source of Federal Non - Funds Total Federal (requested) Cash In -Kind Matching In -Kind Funds Personnel $0 $0 $0 $0 N/A Environmental Justice Tree $337,500 $0 $0 $337,500 N/A Coordinator Fringe Benefits $0 $0 $0 $0 N/A Travel $0 $0 $0 $0 N/A Equipment Rental of gators, $44,550 $0 $0 $44,550 N/A trailers, and trucks Supplies Planting supplies, protection, and $31,103 $0 $0 $31,103 N/A mulch Reusable water $82,500 $0 $0 $0 N/A bags Neighborhood outreach and $30,000 $0 $0 $30,000 N/A communications Contractual Update of urban tree plan on $5,500 $0 $0 $0 N/A targeted Census Tracts 6,600 1-2.5" caliper $901,500 $0 $0 $901,500 N/A trees Beaver -proofing of 200 trees (location $20,000 $0 $0 $20,000 dependent) Expert training on urban forestry $12,825 $0 $0 $12,825 N/A planting and care Unserved youth $34,500 $0 $0 $34,500 N/A watering crews Other (sub -grants $0 $0 $0 $0 N/A only) Subtotal $1,499,978 $0 $0 $1,499,978 N/A Indirect Cost $0 $0 $0 $0 N/A Total $1,499,978 $0 $0 $1,499,978 N/A May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: Greater Dubuque DEVELOPMENT CORP. Schmid Innovation Center 900 Jackson St., Suite 109 Dubuque, IA 52001 www.greaterdubuque.org I write to express the support of Greater Dubuque Development Corporation for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Greater Dubuque Development is proud to partner with the City of Dubuque in the mission of being a model for sustainable communities. "Branching Out Dubuque" helps to create a community of choice which is critical to retaining, recruiting, and creating the workforce that we need. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Rick Dickinson President & CEO YOU can be great here. Alliant Energy.. May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Alliant Energy has a long history of collaborating with communities focused on public forest restoration and preservation as well as urban forestry. We also partner with nonprofits dedicated to tree planting in communities and rural areas across Iowa and Wisconsin. We currently have an initiative to support the planting of one million trees in Iowa and Wisconsin by 2030 and will continue to partner with communities like Dubuque to reach our goal. Support from Federal programs to increase Dubuque's canopy equitably throughout the community is critical as they continually work to make sure all neighborhoods and parks have adequate trees in addition to ensuring resiliency against tree diseases and pests like the emerald ash borer. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for Federal funding. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Leah Rodenberg Alliant Energy Senior Community Affairs Program Manager 200 1st St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 leahrodenberg@alliantenergy.com EIIWW Nicole Breitbach Sr. Community Affairs Manager nicole.breitbach@blackhilIscorp.com May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 41h Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: 1015 Cedar Cross Rd Dubuque,lA 52003 I write to express the support of the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At Black Hills Energy we are dedicated to raising knowledge and awareness about the positive impact's trees have in our homes, communities and environment. Black Hills Energy has been proud to partner with the City of Dubuque on tree plantings each year, to grow the urban canopy for our community. Trees benefit the community in many ways, including improving energy efficiency, filtering storm water and carbon sequestration. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Nicole Breitbach Sr. Community Affairs Manager Improving life with energy www.blackhillscorp.com CIR Crescent Community HEALTH CENTER 5.30.2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of Crescent Community Health Center for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5 and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Crescent Community Health Center is the health home for thousands of disadvantaged patients in Census Tracts1, 3, 5 and 12.02. We have found that many of our patients in these tracts walk or bike to their appointments and most are at or below federal poverty levels. These trees would provide a wonderful opportunity for them to enjoy a more sustainable urban area where they call home. The City of Dubuque has other green spaces in and around the larger metropolitan area, however the areas specified in this grant application would make the most impact on the most disadvantaged populations. Our health center promotes medical, dental and brain health care for all our patients, and we especially advocate for our patients to participate in any activity that promotes their overall wellness. These trees will enhance their neighborhoods and encourage them to spend more time outside biking, walking, running, and playing. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Gary Collins, CEO Crescent Community Health Center 563.690.2860 DUBUCZUE AREi CHAMBER May 301h, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce's for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The "Branching Out Dubuque" initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes the importance of community green space and specifically the benefits derived from a significant increase in trees throughout the targeted areas. Not only aesthetically pleasing and beautifying, but also an imperative action to reduce emissions and advance sustainability efforts which is a core priority of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely. Molly Grover, CCE IOM Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce Brian Peddle General Majors Gregg and Poppy Thompson Divisional Commander May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 41h Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: THE SALVATION ARMY Brad Bailey Commissioner Captains David and Laura Amick Corps Officers I write to express the support of the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At the Salvation Army of Dubuque, it is our goal to not only address the needs of clients in crisis, but to work with them to continue to improve their lives in many ways. One of those areas we encourage is community involvement and whatever they can do to improve the lives of those around them. In our experience with clients who have volunteered in our food pantry garden, those same clients would also benefit from being able to plant a tree in their yard — and have the responsibility of taking care of it. The tree would also provide shade as well as an educational opportunity for children. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely Cindy Kohlmann Communications and Outreach Director Dubuque Salvation Army PO Box 416, Dubuque IA 52004-0416 Telephone (563) 556-1573 Located at 1099 Iowa St, Dubuque, IA 52001 http://saheartland.org D U B U Q U E FAIN STREET i o 6 9 MAIN STREET • D U B U Q U E • I O W A • 5 a 0 0 a- 4 7 2 4 15 6 3 1 5 8 8- 4 4 0 0- 15 6 3 15 8 8- o 6 4 5- FAX • W W W. D U B 0 0 0 E M A INS T RE ET . OR G May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief of Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14t" Street, SW — 4t" Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of Dubuque Main Street for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This grant is particularly important to Dubuque Main Street because three of our 10 downtown districts fall within Census Tract 1. This area of our city is rich in history where many people live and enjoy Dubuque's culture. Unfortunately, there is little to no tree cover. This means these residents don't have the same benefit of reduced energy usage, removal of air pollutants, and filtered stormwater. They also cannot get cool outside on hot days under the shade of trees. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Z�)a-llt� �� Danielle Jacobs Executive Director Dubuque Main Street 1069 W. Main Street Dubuque, IA 52001 diacobs@dubuquemainstreet.org www.dubuquemainstreet.org A MAIN STREET IOWA AFFILIATE of* c n s i N o �IAMONDJO,0, May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the DRA for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The DRA has consistently shown its dedication to the betterment of the community, and its commitment to environmental stewardship is further exemplified through its support of the USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry Grant. By adding thousands of trees over the next five years, our work and efforts stand to benefit in numerous ways. Firstly, the presence of a large number of trees will greatly enhance the city's aesthetics, creating a more visually appealing and inviting environment for residents and visitors. Moreover, the increased tree cover will have a significant positive impact on the overall well-being of the community. Trees offer numerous environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and enhanced stormwater management. These benefits align perfectly with the DRA's vision for a sustainable and resilient community. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Alex Dixon President & CEO of DRA/Q Casino 1855 Greyhound Park Road • Dubuque, IA 52001 • dradubuque.com TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE AN IMPACT. D U B U Q U E 4WIrREEs FOREVER Punting a better tornormw ` May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 1411' Street, SW — 411, Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of Dubuque Trees Forever for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Cormnunity Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Dubuque Trees Forever is a volunteer -driven 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of trees to the community through planting and maintenance, education, and advocacy. The organization has partnered with the City on number urban forestry initiatives. Dubuque Trees Forever will help to promote tree planting opportunities, organize volunteer installations, and support maintenance activities. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely � 1 Laura Roussell President, Dubuque Trees Forever May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of Friends of the Mines of Spain for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area has an America's State Tree Woodland Walk that is used as a natural education area featuring trees that represent all of the 50 states. We are an Important Birding Area of which could not be without trees. We look forward to expanding our tree selection and educating the public on the importance of tree planting and upkeep. Our reach goes beyond the park to a Tri-State Area. We are proud of being part of Dubuque and being a Tree USA City. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely Jennifer L Tigges President, Friends of the Mines of Spain minesofspain.org Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, Inc. in May 30, 2023 L The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14'h Street, SW —4" Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Our agency, Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, Inc., serves low income people living in the Dubuque community. Their limited resources rarely, if ever, would allow them to purchase a tree. This grant would provide trees that could be planted in their yards and neighborhoods allowing them to enjoy not only the environmental impact of the tress, but the beauty of them as well. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, *4c-1 V `-- Jane Drapeaux Chief Executive Officer Jane Drapeaux Corporate Office: Chief Executive Officer 1515 Hawkeye Drive Hiawatha, Iowa 52233 ph:319.393.7811 fax:379.393.6263 www.hacap.org An Equa(Opporruniry Agency : A united Way Member Agency 0% ;� NATIONAL MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM & AQUARIUM IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE 5MITHSON IAN IN SI IPU TH)N May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium supports the City of Dubuque's request as it will provide our community parks, public rights -of -ways, churches, schools, and private property to benefit from thousands of planted trees. As a non-profit organization working on reducing carbon emissions, this federal investment would support our goal. It will help our community to also reduce carbon emissions, decrease temperatures, enhance public safety, improve health, and create other significant benefits. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Kurt Strand President and CEO National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium 350 East 3rd Street Dubuque, Iowa 52001 563.557.9545 www.rivermuseum.com R property of the [Dubuque County Historical Society THE CITY OF Ur B TE Masterpiece on the Mississippi Tuesday, May 30, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 14th Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: Dubuque Office of Shared Prosperity & Neighborhood Support MI -America Cft Engine House No. 1 "" 1805 Central Ave 1 ®r Dubuque, IA, 52001-3601 111 Office (563) 690-6054 2-007-2012*2013 www.cityofdubuque.org 2017*2019 I write to express support on behalf of the Office of Shared Prosperity & Neighborhood Support (OSPNS) for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The OSPNS is a newly created department for the city focused on addressing, preventing, and reducing poverty throughout the city limits. A key focus on our work is centering on our most vulnerable population. Our approach to the work consists of using an equity lens, data -driven (desegregated) approach and collaborating with both public, private and neighborhood associations to build a more livable, viable and equitable community. The OSPNS supports Dubuque's effort because without the grant many of our community members will have additional barriers to secure the basic human need to enjoy the quality of life. With limited resources available for our most vulnerable populations, those who we serve rarely have the resources available to purchase and plant trees in their yards and neighborhoods. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely, Anderson Sainci Director, Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation Teamwork APPROACH To collaboratively make an impact on poverty and fostering prosperity we will: Inform others on data and promising practices to measure and accelerate collective impact. Facilitate and Convene collaboration to address poverty, racial equity, and socio-economic opportunity Initiate new partnerships and nurture existing ones to advance prosperity. Invest in initiatives that address poverty and enhance neighborhoods. SKILLS & LIVING WAGE JOBS PATHWAYS TO PROSPERITY CITY OF DUBUQUE OFFICE OF SHARED PROSPERITY & NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES ISSUES 1 in 3 households in the City of Dubuque struggle to make ends meet. (Based on 200% Fed Poverty Level 2018) Economic Insecurity 3GenerationalLack of Transportation Lack of Child Poverty Lack of Care & Early Education Learning Determinants & Skills Laclof physical &BrainAffordabHealth ConditionsHousNeighbFood Insecurity 1l SAFE & AFFORDABLE HOUSING OUTCOMES ft QUALITY CHILD CARE & EARLY LEARNING FOCUS Taking on poverty is an all -hands -on -deck endeavor with every sector of the community including those with lived -experience. We foster and support bringing all sectors together to achieve our vision and mission. City residents thrive best when their neighborhoods are vibrant, economically secure, safe and inclusive. We facilitate resident and stakeholders in identifying and securing services to make their neighborhoods prosper. POVERTY& RACIAL EQUITY Recognizing that poverty disproportionately affects Blacks and People of Color in the city, our office promotes and applies a Racial Equity Lens that assists stakeholders in knowing and addressing the impact of racial and socio-economic bias in local and state policies and practice. Meaningful economic growth for a community requires access and opportunity to jobs that pay a livable wage. We'll collaborate with businesses and employers in determining what is considered a living wage for our residents and ways to achieve a� 4l1 DIGITALACCESS & SKILLS ra TRANSPORTATION Charles Isenhart STATE REPRESENTATIVE District 72 Statehouse: (515) 281-3221 e-mail — charles.isenhart@legis.iowa.gov HOME ADDRESS P.O. Box 3353 Dubuque, IA 52004-3353 Home: (563) 557-1261 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief, Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 4t' Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: wDU!5e of RepreontAtibeg State of Iowa Ninetieth General Assembly STATEHOUSE Des Moines, Iowa 50319 May 31, 2023 COMMITTEES Agriculture Economic Growth and Technology Veterans Affairs Ways and Means Appropriations Subcommittee for Health and Human Service I support the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry program funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in neighborhoods of my legislative district which are some of the poorest in the community. These neighborhoods have been hard hit by emerald ash borer disease taking out hundreds of mature ash trees. Street trees also face removal due to buckling of sidewalk, curb and gutter pavement. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The expansion of tree canopy will also moderate weather conditions (sun/heat/wind) that result in costly energy bills for winter heating and summer cooling that low-income households already find difficult to pay. I appreciate the Forest Service giving the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Respectfully submitted, i Charles Isenhart State representative rs of St. Franci's Iowa 3390 Windsor Avenue I Dubuque, Iowa 520011 563.583.9786 1 www.osfdbq.org May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of "Branching Out Dubuque" for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Trees are bountiful on the 131 acres of the land on which we Sisters of Saint Francis live. These trees bring much joy in the shade and beauty they give. The value of providing that same kind of tree canopy for the disadvantaged census tracts of Dubuque is something we heartily support. We recognize that, in addition to bringing joy, shade, and beauty, the trees provided by the grant will also help reduce energy costs, reduce fossil fuel usage, and help support a healthier climate. Our mission as Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa, expresses our history and convictions: As Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa, our congregational mission is: Rooted in the Gospel and in the spirit of Francis and Clare, the Sisters of St. Francis live in right relationship with all creation. In our personal, communal and public life, we commit to ongoing conversion as we - Deepen our relationship with Mother Earth and Sister Water - Stand with persons who are poor - Make peace and practice nonviolence. This is who we are; this is what the global community can expect of us. As Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa, we recognize ourselves as part of a sacred family within one Earth Community. Since 1879 we have shared a unique relationship with this parcel of land (131 acres) on the north end of Dubuque. This kinship calls us to cherish and care for this gift of land entrusted to us and is the source of our commitment to `live in right relationship with all creation.' As a congregation, we are committed to being good stewards of the land and making choices based on sustaining the whole ecological community. Trees are a vital part of that community. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely '14. erw�v Sister Kathy Knipper, OSF President — Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa M Itic u to al FAMILY CENTER The Ruby Sutton Building I D U B U Q U E May 19, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141h Street, SW — 4`h Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore: I write to express the support of the Teen Resiliency Corps for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Teen Resiliency Corps is a program sponsored by the nonprofit Multicultural Family Center that provides underserved youth with opportunities to address sustainability and resiliency issues in their neighborhoods. All Teen Resiliency Corps members will have opportunities to canvass targeted neighborhoods to promote the availability of free trees. Five teens will be hired each summer to support maintenance needs of young trees, including watering and pruning, which will serve as career development and potentially a pipeline to jobs within the City Parks Division. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Sincerely Sarah Petersen Assistant Director Multicultural Family Center 1157 Central Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 a TRi STATF. 790 Valentine Drive Dubuque, IA 52003 May 31, 2023 The Honorable Randy Moore Chief Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture 201 141' Street, SW — 4th Floor Washington, DC 20250 Dear Chief Moore; I write to express the support of Tri State Tail Vision for the City of Dubuque's application for Urban & Community Forestry funding. Dubuque seeks USDA Forest Service resources to launch a targeted tree planting initiative in disadvantaged Census Tracts 1, 3, 5, and 12.02. Federal investment will enable Dubuque to plant trees on public and private property during the project period. The Branching Out Dubuque initiative will support the community's goal to increase urban canopy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tri-State Trail Vision was formed from the Envision 2010 (Ten Community Projects by 2010) effort in Dubuque. We seek to motivate people to walk, hike, and bike on our trail systems in and around the Dubuque area. Our mission is to develop an integrated trail system to enhance the life of the residents in the Tri-State region. To that end, we advocate in Dubuque and adjacent communities for all the aspects of environment and infrastructure that support a healthy outdoor lifestyle and trails that are interesting, beautiful, and comfortable. Trees provide all that and more, either along existing trails or as elements of sidewalks or roadways where people connect with nature. They remove carbon from the atmosphere, cool our neighborhoods, and filter our water and air. They provide wildlife habitat, which leads to improved mental and physical well-being. Please give the highest consideration to Dubuque's request for federal funding. Si77ely L C) Art Roc e Board Member Tri State Trail Vision 04.12.2023 RAREST SERdiCt TMfNT0F61h USDA Forest Service Urban & Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) SUMMARY INFORMATION Federal Awarding Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture — Forest Service (FS) Urban and Community Forestry Program. Notice of Funding Opportunity Title: Inflation Reduction Act — Urban and Community Forestry Notice of Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA-01 Grants.gov https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/home.html Assistance Listing: This program is listed in the Assistance Listings on Sam.gov under 10.727 Inflation Reduction Act— Urban & Community Forestry SAM.gov Registration: All applicants must have an active registration at sam.gov and maintain active registration throughout the life of the award. This is the government -wide web -based system that supports all contracts, grants, and the electronic payment system. This requirement for registration may be found at 2 CFR 25.200. Notice of Funding Opportunity Summary Inflation Reduction Action of 2022, Public Law No: 117-169. Subtitle D, Sec. 23003 (a). State and Private Forestry Conservation Programs, (2) Urban and Community Forestry (2022-2031) to provide multiyear, programmatic, competitive grants for tree planting and related activities, with a priority for projects that benefit underserved populations and areas through the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance program established under section 9(c) of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act Of 1978 (16U.S.C.2105(c)) Key Dates Applicant materials can be found by searching for this funding opportunity through Grants.gov. Search for grant Opportunity Number USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA 01. Applications will be submitted through the UCF Online Grant Portal All application materials must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on June 1, 2023. For inquiries specific to the content of the NOFO requirements, contact the following shared inbox: SM.FS.UCF IRA@usda.gov). Please limit questions to those regarding specific information contained in 04.12.2023 this NOFO (such as dates, page numbers, clarification of discrepancies, etc.). Questions related to eligibility, or the merits of a specific proposal will not be addressed. Information on available pre -award webinars and other supporting information for this funding opportunity will be posted at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/urban-forests/ucf Contents SUMMARY INFORMATION............................................................................................................................1 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION...............................................................................................................................2 Legislative Authority and Funding Priorities.............................................................................................2 FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION.................................................................................................................3 AvailableFunding......................................................................................................................................3 EligibilityInformation................................................................................................................................3 Pass -Through Funding (Sub-Awards)........................................................................................................7 APPLICATION, SUBMISSION, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................8 Electronic Application Package.................................................................................................................8 Content and Form of Application Submission..........................................................................................8 PROPOSAL EVALUATION............................................................................................................................11 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................................12 APPLICATION SUBMITTAL...........................................................................................................................12 CONTACT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION....................................................................................................12 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority and Funding Priorities Subtitle D, Sec. 23003 (a). State and Private Forestry Conservation Programs - Appropriations: $1,500,000,000 to provide multiyear, programmatic, competitive grants to a State agency, a local governmental entity, an agency or governmental entity of the District of Columbia, an agency or governmental entity of an insular area (as defined in section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3103)), an Indian Tribe, or a nonprofit organization. Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) is a covered program under the Agency's Justice40 Initiative established through Executive Order 13985. To advance the mission of Justice40, proposals that deliver 40% of the benefits of IRA investments through established partnerships with local organizations working to support disadvantaged communities experiencing low tree canopy and environmental justice will receive priority consideration. 2 04.12.2023 USDA is a partner on the Interagency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Promoting Equitable Access to Nature in Nature -Deprived Communities, which seeks to reduce the number of people without access to parks and nature in their communities. The America the Beautiful Initiative supports the prioritization of locally led conservation and park projects in communities that disproportionately lack access to nature and its benefits. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Available Funding A. Estimated Funding The USDA Forest Service may provide up to $1 Billion for Urban and Community Forestry investments through this opportunity (based on availability of funding, the quality of applications received, agency priorities, and other applicable considerations). B. Performance Period All funding agreements will be for a period of 5 years. All activities and expenses must be completed within 5 years of award. Funding agreements will not be extended beyond 5years. Note: Recipients will be expected to implement and demonstrate measurable progress within 12 months of award. C. Amount of Awards The USDA Forest Service welcomes proposals spanning a broad range of costs from eligible entities working at a community, regional and national scale. The minimum Federal funding amount for projects is $100,000. The maximum Federal funding limit is $50,000,000. D. Additional Funding FS may at its discretion, increase the total level of funding available in this funding round or in any category in this funding round from any available source provided the awards meet the requirements of the statute which made the funding available to the agency. Eligibility Information Projects must conform to laws and authorities in the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act (Section 9. [16 U.S.C. 21051 Urban and Community Forestry Assistance. Costs must conform to 2 CFR 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Reauirements for Federal Awards. A. Who Can Apply Entities eligible to apply for funding under this NOFO include: • State government entity • Local government entity • Agency or governmental entity of the District of Columbia 3 04.12.2023 • Agency or governmental entity of an insular area (as defined in section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3103) • Federally Recognized Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations/villages, and Tribal organizations as defined in 25 USC 5304 (1) and operating within the United States, or its territories • Non-profit organizations • Public and State-controlled institutions of high er education • Community Based Organization Applicants that include contributing partners must clearly describe the relationship between the applicant and the "partner(s)." Partner organizations from disadvantaged communities must be full partners in the project. A letter of commitment is required to be submitted by each contributing partner. B. Eligible Lands Eligible applicants may apply for funding for a project to be conducted on non -Federal lands such as: • State and local government, • Homeowner associations, • Private lands, and • Tribal/Alaska native corporation (includes Trust lands). Lands owned or administered by the federal government are not eligible for this funding opportunity except for lands held in trust for Native American Tribes and individuals (hereinafter Trust lands). C. Eligible Uses of Funding 1. Examples of eligible activities include projects that: a. Foster individuals, groups, and organizations in the communities served to become engaged participants in urban forest planning, planting, and management, especially those in disadvantaged communities that do not have adequate resources to install or maintain green infrastructure or are underrepresented. b. Protect, enhance, and expand equitable urban tree canopy cover to maximize community access to human health, social, ecological, and economic benefits particularly in disadvantaged and nature -deprived communities experiencing low tree canopy cover, extreme heat and frequent flooding. Improve and increase access to parks and nature in communities. c. Encourage long-term urban forest planning, assessment, and management. d. Encourage proactive and systematic maintenance and monitoring of urban trees and forested natural areas to improve forest health; assess risk to forests from pests, disease, and adverse climate impacts; and formulate adaptive management strategies to improve forest resilience. 4 04.12.2023 e. Advance the use of tree and forest inventories, monitoring, and assessment tools in priority areas, including monitoring and measurement of extreme heat. f. Improve preparation for severe storms and the recovery of damaged or deteriorated landscapes to more healthy and resilient conditions. g. Protect, enhance and increase access to watersheds in urban and developing areas with a focus on conserving and managing forest patches, and green stormwater infrastructure. h. Provide paid training experiences for urban forestry crews to establish and maintain urban forests into the future. Support youth employment opportunities, including workforce development and training for the creation and maintenance of green jobs and economic opportunities for planning, planting, and sustainably maintaining trees and forests, including training and retaining urban arborists, and producing and using urban forest products. i. Develop paid on-the-job training opportunities, including pre -apprenticeships and apprenticeships, to expand workforce development pathways for green careers in urban and community forestry. j. Address exotic invasive pest species that adversely impact urban forests. k. Work across jurisdictional boundaries, leveraging ideas and resources to increase capacity to provide equitable access to benefits across the larger landscape and at a greater geographic scale. I. Aid in planning, goal setting, and skill sharing with other professions such as urban planners, engineers, educators, recreational and public health officials. 2. Examples of project activities that are NOT eligible for funding under Urban and Community Forestry Authorities include: Research: Basic research as defined in 2CFR 422.1, "Systematic study directed toward fuller knowledge or understanding of the fundamental aspects of phenomena and of observable facts without specific applications towards processes or products in mind." Note: Technical transfer, education, and outreach activities associated with applying research can be included in the application.). b. Construction and capital improvements. Examples of construction include facilities, infrastructure, roads, new buildings, culverts, and boardwalks. c. Land acquisition (conservation easement and fee simple) projects. d. Cost -share, reimbursement, and other types of payment provided directly to private landowners. However, Urban and Community Forestry funding (and match) may be used to perform work on private lands; for example, an eligible entity could pay for trees to be planted on private lands with permission of the landowner. 5 04.12.2023 e. Small business start-up funding. Equipment purchases are rarely approved and will be reviewed prior to grant award. Equipment rental should be considered as an alternative. Equipment is defined as an article of nonexpendable, tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit. 3. Match Waiver Any Non -Federal cost -share requirement otherwise applicable to projects carried out under this section may be waived at the discretion of the Secretary. Match may be waived for proposals that deliver 100 percent of the funding/program benefits to disadvantaged communities. Applications seeking match waiver must clearly describe the scope of work to be performed in applicable disadvantaged communities, and identify online vulnerability and environmental justice equity data tools referenced to support a disadvantaged community designation, (e.g., White House Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), EPA Environmental Justice and Screening Mapping Tool (EJScreen), EPA EnviroAtlas Interactive Map, Opportunity Zones), or other government sponsored vulnerability tools which inform metrics applicable to the scope of work. Multiple tools maybe used. All work must be tracked at the level that designates disadvantaged communities. Applicants receiving match waiver approval that pass -through funding (sub -award) for work in disadvantaged communities must pass the match waiver to sub- awardees performing the work. While the pace of federal expenditures and cost sharing/matching may vary throughout the award period, the agency will actively monitor expenditure rates and cost sharing/matching levels as it receives payment requests to ensure the total cost sharing/matching requirement is met by the award period of performance end date. Additional details about cost sharing or matching funds/contributions are located at 2 CFR 200.306. Cost Sharing or Matching Requirements All federal grant funds are to be matched at least equally (dollar for dollar) with non-federal match which may include allowable and allocable in -kind contributions (i.e., personnel salary, fringe, and indirect costs; services, materials, supplies, equipment donations; and volunteer assistance), and private and public (non- federal) monetary contributions. Cash match is from the applicant's budget, such as personnel salary, fringe benefits, travel, equipment, and supplies, or cash provided by another party. The source of the cash match cannot be derived from another Federal award or grant. In -kind match is a non -cash contribution of value. A non -Federal entity's in -kind match must meet the following criteria: • Verifiable from the non -Federal entity's records • Not included as contributions for any other Federal award. • Necessary and reasonable for accomplishment of project or program objectives. • Allowable under subpart E of 2 CFR 200. 6 04.12.2023 • Not paid by the Federal Government under another Federal award, except where the Federal statute authorizing a program specifically provides that Federal funds made available for such program can be applied to matching or cost sharing requirements of other Federal programs. • Provided for in the approved budget when required by the Federal awarding agency; and • Conform to other provisions of 2 CFR 200, as applicable. Matching funds must be derived entirely from non -Federal sources (unless expressly authorized in law by the other federal program. Pass -Through Funding (Sub -Awards) In response to stakeholder feedback and to alleviate the administrative burden on small, capacity - strained applicants, to expedite funding to communities in greatest need, and to increase opportunities to award high volumes of grants in condensed timeframes, applications from eligible entities with demonstrated ability to competitively pass -through (subaward) funding to community -based organizations and other partners serving disadvantaged communities are encouraged. A minimum of 80% of all funding to a pass -through entity must be competitively sub -awarded to community -based organizations, or other partners serving disadvantaged communities. Funding to Pass -Through Entities will be executed through a grant or cooperative agreement with substantial Forest Service involvement, at the discretion of the Forest Service. For this funding opportunity, a "Community Based Organization" is defined as a public or nonprofit organization that supports and/or represents a community and/or certain populations within a community through engagement, education, and other related services provided to individual community residents and community stakeholders. A "community" can be characterized by a particular geographic area and/or by the relationships among members with similar interests and can be characterized as part of a broader national or regional community where organizations can be focused on the needs of urban, rural and/or tribal areas, and other similar groups. Responsibilities of each pass -through entity include the following: 1. Design an equal opportunity competitive project application submission and evaluation process that alleviates burden, including but not limited to technical and administrative burden, on small, capacity -constrained applicants. 2. Develop outreach efforts and plans to reach all underserved or disadvantaged communities, especially urban communities, tribal governments and indigenous communities, youth, and public minority land grant institutions, for awareness of the availability of sub -award funding. 3. Develop a sub -award process that ensures efficient and effective fund dispersal and completion of sub-awardee projects within a 1year period. All sub-awardee projects must be completed within the five-year, Pass -Through Entity grant performance period. 4. Create an efficient progress and financial tracking and accomplishment reporting system for Urban and Community Forestry IRA sub -award projects. 7 04.12.2023 5. Manage the application in -take processes, evaluations, subawards process, project risk through ongoing monitoring, and project tracking and reporting for communities. Subawards to communities will not be individually approved by the Forest Service. Submit timely financial and progress reports and success stories (brief project description and outcomes, with project photographs and recipient testimonials where feasible) with the USDA Forest Service. 6. Assist sub-awardee with development and distribution of communications and promotional materials that support the funded program of work and reflect IRA as the source of funding. APPLICATION, SUBMISSION, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS Electronic Application Package Applicant materials can be found on the Urban and Community Forestry UCF Grant Portal or by searching for this funding opportunity through Grants.gov. In grants.gov, search for grant Opportunity Number USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA-01. Applications are to be submitted through the UCF Online Grant Portal . All application materials must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on June 1, 2023. For technical issues while viewing Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support at 1-800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov. Forest Service staff cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts. USDA Forest Service will provide two (2) Application Assistance Webinars in late April to assist with specific questions and inquiries. If you would like to receive a direct invitation for these sessions, please send an email to the Urban & Community Forestry Program Inbox: SM.FS.UCF IRA@USDA.GOV Content and Form of Application Submission The Forest Service may choose not to consider applications that fail to comply with the required content, format, and page limits, or those that are incomplete. To be considered for funding under this opportunity, an application must contain the following documents: A. Project Narrative Each page must be numbered and have one -inch margins. The text of the project narrative must be single spaced and typed in a standard typeface (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri) with no smaller than 12-point font. The project narrative must not exceed 7 pages. This page limit applies to the project narrative only. Other application materials, such as budget details/narratives, maps, and letters of commitment from contributing partners are not counted in this 7-page limit. Project Narratives must include all the following information: 1. Project Title: Provide a uniquely descriptive title for this project. Use this full title consistently on all submission communications and supplemental documents, including letters of support, until an official application number is assigned by the Forest Service. H 04.12.2023 2. Project Applicant: Provide the name of the organization applying for Federal funding. 3. Contact Information: Provide the name, title, address, phone number, and email address for the person leading the project or program. 4. Project Summary: In less than 100 words, provide a summary of the project that includes the scope, location, key partners, and expected accomplishments. 5. Project Scope Alignment: Describe the issues this project is seeking to address and how the project will contribute to the goals in this funding opportunity, including congressional, Justice40, State Forest Action Plans, and Ten -Year Urban and Community Forestry Action Plan (2016-2026) priorities. 6. Implementation Strategy/Methodology/Timeline: Provide a detailed explanation of the proposed approach, methodology, operations strategies, project schedule/timeline with goals/milestones, expected accomplishments or measurable outcomes, and project assessment/evaluation methods. 7. Capability and Capacity: Describe how each contributing organization is suited for (mission) and qualified to deliver the project. Provide the names, titles, and organization affiliation and specific roles of key personnel for the project. Include qualifications and experience of key personnel to implement, monitor, and assess/report project outcome. 8. Project Partners: Provide the names of partner organizations, describe their involvement and contributions to the project, and qualifications of the organization and personnel as they relate to their roles in project implementation. 9. Communications Plan: Share your plans for communication on the project, including plans for 1) signage acknowledging the source of funding at project locations 2) inclusion of funding information in press and promotional materials. 10. Evidence of Disadvantaged Community Status for projects requesting Match Waiver (if applicable): Clearly describe the scope of work to be performed in disadvantaged communities, and identify online vulnerability and environmental justice equity data and/or tools referenced to support a disadvantaged community designation, (e.g., White House Council on Environmental Quality Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), EPA Environmental Justice and Screening Mapping Tool (EJScreen), EPA EnviroAtlas Interactive Map, Opportunity Zones, or other vulnerability data/tools applicable to the scope of work). Multiple tools may be used. All work must be tracked at the level that designates disadvantaged communities. Primary applicants receiving cost -match waiver approval that pass -through funding (sub -award) for work in disadvantaged communities must pass through the cost match waiver to sub- awardees performing the work. pi 04.12.2023 D. Budget Narrative In a separate document titled "Budget Narrative," explain and justify all requested budget items/costs. List in detail how the totals on the budget were determined and demonstrate a clear connection between costs and the proposed project activities. For personnel salary costs, include the base -line salary figures and the estimates of time to be directly charged to the project. Describe any item that under the applicable Federal cost principles requires the agency's approval and estimate its cost. The pages included as the budget narrative do not count toward the page limit. Cost sharing/matching must be committed at the time of application submission. The budget narrative must show the amounts and sources of match or cost share (including both cash and in -kind contributions. E. Budget A budget should be submitted as an attachment and does not count toward the 7-page narrative limit (see sample budget template and instructions). Categories include the following: • Personnel (salary costs) • Fringe benefits • Travel • Equipment (cost of purchase, not rental. NOTE: The definition of equipment is tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and a per -unit acquisition cost of at least $5000. Equipment purchase is heavily discouraged. Consider equipment rental instead.) • Supplies (tangible personal property other than equipment --includes tree purchase not completed under a contract for service) • Contractual (e.g., contract for service, equipment rental) • Other (sub -grants only) • Indirect costs (NICRA, de minimus, or none —see below) De minimis rate: Any Non -Federal entity (except State and local governments that receive more than $35 million per year in Federal funding) that does not have a current negotiated (including provisional) indirect rate (NICRA) may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. No documentation is required to justify the 10 percent de minimis indirect cost rate. As described in 2 CFR 200.403, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non -Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non -Federal entity may apply to do at any time. Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC) means all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and up to the first $25,000 of each subaward (regardless of the period of performance of the subawards under the award). MTDC excludes equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, 10 04.12.2023 tuition remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support costs and the portion of each subaward in excess of $25,000. Other items may only be excluded when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of indirect costs, and with the approval of the cognizant agency for indirect costs. Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) may be used, if established. PROPOSAL EVALUATION Proposals will be evaluated based on the following Evaluation Criteria (100 points): 1. Alignment with Priorities (0-30 points) Scope of work addresses Justice40, Congressional, State Forest Action Plan and Ten -Year National Urban and Community Forestry Plan priorities. • Increase equitable access to urban tree canopy and associated human health, environmental and economic (workforce) benefits in disadvantaged communities. Broaden community engagement in local urban forest planning. Improve resilience to climate change, pests, storm/extreme heat events through best management and maintenance practices. 2. Technical Merit (0-20 points) • Strategy and methodology are logical and appropriate to attain stated results. • Methodology demonstrates high likelihood of success and long-term outcomes. • If applicable, methodology for identifying disadvantaged communities is appropriate to meet priorities. 3. Capability and Capacity (0-20 points) • Organization(s) (including partners) have ability to carry out the proposed work within the grant period and meet federal grant requirements. • Key personnel (including partners/contractors) have the training opportunities, skills, expertise, and relationships required to complete the work and achieve stated results; hired personnel include union labor, living wage paying jobs. 4. Measurable Results/Outcomes (0-20 points) • Conditions are significantly improved for communities (people or places) as prioritized in Justice40, Congressional, State Forest Action Plan and Ten -Year National Urban and Community Forestry Plan. • Increased equitable access to urban tree canopy and associated human health, environmental and economic (workforce) benefits in disadvantaged communities. • Broadened community engagement in local urban forest planning. 11 04.12.2023 • Improved resilience to climate change, pests, storm/extreme heat events through best management and maintenance practices. • Recipients will be expected to implement and demonstrate measurable progress within 12 months of award. 5. Budget and Cost -Effectiveness (0-10 points) • Budget and budget narrative adequately describes proposed costs. • Administrative costs are reasonable compared to other expenditures. • Costs are in proportion to project input needs and results/outcomes. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS Semi-annual financial and progress reports are required for IRA grants: Financial and Progress reports will be submitted for the periods ending June 30 and December 31. Reports are due 30 days from the period end. Timely submittal of financial and progress reports for each grant as indicated in your award agreement will be required. Payments will be withheld until missing reports are received and approved. Progress reports should highlight direct quantitative and qualitative investment activities and outcomes and include stories and photographs that illustrate these. APPLICATION SUBMITTAL Applications are to be submitted through the UCF Online Grant Portal. The on-line application workflow process is self-explanatory with help links to guide you through the application process. Applicant materials can be found on the grant application portal under the forms template and resources section, or by searching grant opportunity number USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA-01 in Grants.gov. All applications must be completed and submitted by June 1, 2023, 11:59 PM Eastern. Once submitted, the applicant will receive an email notice confirming their application was successfully submitted. CONTACT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION For inquiries specific to the content of the NOFO requirements, contact the following shared inbox: SM.FS.UCF IRA@usda.gov. Please limit questions to those regarding specific information contained in this NOFO (such as dates, page numbers, clarification of discrepancies, etc.). Questions related to eligibility, or the merits of a specific proposal will not be addressed. USDA Forest Service will provide two (2) Application Assistance Webinars in late April to assist with specific questions and inquiries. If you would like to receive a direct invitation for these sessions, please send an email to the Urban & Community Forestry Program Inbox: SM.FS.UCF IRA@USDA.GOV 12