2026 Project Canopy Assistance Grants

The Maine Forest Service is pleased to announce the availability of grants for community forestry projects under the Urban and Community Forestry and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation Grant Programs. Through Project Canopy, a program by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Maine Forest Service, a total of $390,000 in grants will be offered, comprising $250,000 in Project Canopy Assistance grants and $140,000 in Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants. These grants aim to support projects in the following categories:

Project Canopy Assistance Planning and Education

  • Maximum Award: $20,000
  • Projects focus on sustainable community forestry management and increasing awareness of the benefits of trees and forests.

Project Canopy Planting and Maintenance

  • Maximum Award: $15,000
  • Projects enhance community health and livability through proper tree planting and maintenance.

Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation

  • Maximum Award: $20,000
  • Projects address mitigation efforts due to emerald ash borer infestation in communities that are most severely impacted.
  • Projects must be completed by January 31, 2028.

Eligibility and Workshop Information:

  • Participating in the grant workshop is mandatory to apply for the 2026 Project Canopy Assistance or Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants.
  • The virtual grant workshop is scheduled for October 29, 2026, from 1–3 pm, covering grant writing, project development, sustainable community forest management, and grant administration for both programs.
  • Register for this workshop

Application Deadline

  • Grant applications must be submitted to the MFS by 11:59 pm on Thursday, December 17, 2026.

  • Project Canopy Assistance and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants require a 50% match from the grant recipient in cash or in-kind services.

Funding Source

  • The USDA Forest Service Community Forestry Assistance Program funds Project Canopy assistance and Emerald Ash Borer Mitigation grants

Learn More and Apply

Join Project Canopy in advancing community forestry and creating more resilient urban and community forests. Explore the opportunities and positively impact Maine's environment and quality of life.

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