New Orleans Seeks Consultants for $8M Tree Planting Initiative

The City of New Orleans is soliciting proposals from seven qualified nonprofit consultancy firms to help manage an $8 million Urban and Community Forestry Grant awarded by the USDA Forest Service through the Inflation Reduction Act. The New Orleans Department of Parks and Parkways, which oversees over 2,000 acres of public green spaces and 450,000 street trees, aims to collaborate with consultants to plant native and adaptive species, advance urban forestry goals, and protect the city’s tree canopy. As reported by Kelly Hite, this initiative aligns with the city’s Climate Action Plan goal of planting 40,000 trees by 2030 and includes updating the Tree Protection Ordinance to safeguard existing trees.

Recognized as a 2024 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, New Orleans was also awarded the prestigious Growth Award for surpassing key urban forestry standards. The Arbor Day Foundation lauded the city’s leadership in promoting the critical role of trees as urban infrastructure, emphasizing their benefits in mitigating the urban heat island effect, reducing stormwater runoff, and improving air quality. Trees also enhance mental and physical health, reduce energy costs, and boost property values, underscoring their importance in urban environments.

This ambitious tree-planting program builds on New Orleans’ longstanding commitment to green initiatives and community resilience. The Department of Parks and Parkways will implement the grant through partnerships with nonprofit tree-planting groups and innovative urban forestry projects. As part of the city’s broader sustainability efforts, this initiative aims to create healthier, more livable neighborhoods while setting an example for urban forestry nationwide.