The Billings Parks and Recreation staff proposes the approval for a Montana Department of Natural Resources (DNRC) grant for improvements to the vegetation in Riverfront Park along the trails. The project scope includes remove invasive tree/brush species; providing space for cottonwood regeneration along the trails; inventory park trees; and provide public education on riverfront forest ecosystem benefits. The $5,000 grant requires a 1:1 match. The match required will be provided in the categories of salaries, wages, benefits, and operating expenses in the form of cash-contributions and in-kind goods or services related to the approved project.

City Council may:

• Approve, the DNRC grant funds of $5,000 or;
• Disapprove of the DNRC grant funds and provide staff with additional guidance.

The grant requires a 1:1 match of $5,000. The City's match will consist of staff time, equipment and supplies, and volunteer in-kind labor.

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the acceptance for DNRC grant funding to improve the vegetation along the trails in Riverfront Park.