Funding for trees & renewable energy, Delaware River Basin dam study

Here’s the latest sustainability news this week.

‘Mo Money, Mo’ Trees: Philadelphia Receives $12 Million for Tree Canopy. The $12 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture supports the Philly Tree Plan, a 10-year initiative to increase the city’s tree canopy. Led by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in partnership with city agencies, the plan aims to improve air quality and reduce heat, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. The funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act, marking one of the largest federal investments in urban forestry in Philadelphia’s history.

Study to evaluate dams for drought management and water quality amid climate change in Delaware River Basin. Leaders from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC), and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) signed an amendment to the feasibility cost-sharing agreement for the Francis E. Walter Dam Re-Evaluation study. The study will assess the dam’s role during emergency drought conditions and the impacts of climate change in the Delaware River Basin, focusing on salinity control, low flow augmentation, and protecting aquatic life.

Pennsylvania Secures Nearly $2 Million for Renewable Energy Planning. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has received a $1.96 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to help local governments plan for renewable energy projects. The funding will support the Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP) program, which provides education and outreach to communities on wind, solar, and other renewable energy options. The initiative builds on prior efforts by the DEP to assist municipalities in renewable energy development.