The Delaware Forest Service has secured $1.5 million in funding from the U.S. Forest Service to launch the Delaware Forest Resiliency Fund.
This initiative aims to support landowners in enhancing forest health through tree planting, invasive species removal, and prescribed fire practices.
Expanding Forest Stewardship
This funding represents the largest grant ever received by the Delaware Forest Service for forest stewardship.
According to Delaware State Forester, Kyle Hoyd, the fund will strengthen existing cost-share programs and assist private landowners in increasing forest diversity and overall tree cover.
Who Can Apply?
The Delaware Forest Resiliency Fund is available to a wide range of landowners, including:
- Non-industrial private forestland owners
- Homeowners associations
- Nonprofits
- Municipalities
- County governments
Eligible projects must cover at least three acres, and applicants cannot own more than 10,000 forested acres in the state.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis as long as funding remains available & until it runs out.
Addressing Forest Loss
Delaware’s forests face threats from monocultures and over-harvested hardwood stands.
By planting native species like various oak species, shortleaf pine, Atlantic white cedar, bald cypress, and pitch pine, landowners can help slow net canopy loss over the next five years.
Improving Forest Health
In addition to tree planting, the program prioritizes:
- Invasive species control: Managing non-native plants that outcompete native species, disrupt wildlife habitats, and degrade forest health. Only species classified as invasive by the Delaware Invasive Species Council and found in forests qualify for funding.
- Prescribed fire: Promoting native species growth while reducing invasive plants that thrive without fire. Funds can be used for permanent vegetative fire breaks, burn plans, and implementation efforts.
Funding Details
- Tree planting projects: No maximum payment limit; funds go directly to suppliers and contractors.
- Invasive species removal & prescribed fire projects: Capped at $10,000 per landowner. Reimbursement occurs after project completion and verification.
Interested landowners can find more information and apply at Delaware Forest Resiliency Fund.
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Source: Delaware Business Time