TRENTON - Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette, Sustainable Jersey and The College of New Jersey July 16 announced the award of nearly $4.5 million in grants to fund the planting of trees at 40 public schools, colleges and universities across the state through the Trees for Schools program.
The Atlantic County Institute of Technology was the only school district in Atlantic County to receive funding. The district will receive $130,845 for its tree program.
The tree planting projects will increase shade coverage to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures due to climate change, beautify school campuses, mitigate and filter stormwater runoff, and reduce the state’s carbon footprint.
More than half of the projects are located in overburdened communities, where excessive paving and limited tree cover can cause temperatures to increase, a scenario known as the urban heat-island effect. Grant awardees will participate in workshops and design projects, with the goal of planting more than 4,500 trees in Spring 2026.
“The planting of trees in urban areas is an incredible tool in our work to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” LaTourette said. “Expanding tree canopies at school campuses will make it easier for students, staff and residents to find shade on hot days while providing numerous environmental benefits. My DEP colleagues and I are proud to support this work to promote the importance of trees in fighting climate change.”
“The Trees for Schools grants make local sustainability real, practical, and achievable,” Sustainable Jersey Director Randall Solomon said. “Congratulations to the schools, colleges, and universities awarded a grant. They are stepping up, taking advantage of resources, and showing that meaningful climate action isn’t an abstract idea. It’s happening now, in communities across New Jersey. We look forward to working with these schools to expand their tree canopy and provide students with rich educational opportunities and a vital connection to nature.”
The grants range from $10,000 to $250,000 and cover costs associated with planning, site preparation, tree purchases, planting, watering, monitoring and maintenance over a three-year period.
The program, which launched on Arbor Day in 2023, is a joint effort of DEP, Sustainable Jersey and TCNJ. It is funded through New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a multi-state, market-based program that establishes a regional cap on carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel power plants. Proceeds from RGGI auctions are used to fund programs that benefit the environment.
