Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the ReLeaf Community Forest and the Shade Tree Program Grants to provide assistance towards the Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan.

Adoption of the attached resolution.

On July 31, 2023, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) published a request for application for the ReLeaf Community Forest Grant and the Shade Tree Program Bonding Grant. This is an opportunity for the City of Mankato to continue to leverage the EAB Management budget to continue the removal and replacement of ash trees that began in 2021.

The following is a summary of the grant:
 

• Eligible activities include tree removal, stump grinding and tree planting.
• Maximum reimbursement amount of $500,000 for each grant. No project minimum.
• No matching funds are required for either grant.
• All grant work must be completed and submitted by June 30, 2027, for the ReLeaf Grant and by December 31, 2027, for the Shade Tree Program grant.
• Applications are due September 18, 2023, for the ReLeaf Grant and October 2, 2023, for the Shade Tree Program grant.

Staff is proposing applying for both grants to provide funding assistance towards ash tree removal, stump grinding and replacement tree plantings in city right-of-ways and parks as part of the approved Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan.