Celebrating Community Commitment: Grants and Tree Designations in Rhode Island
Across Rhode Island, continued investment in urban and community forestry is strengthening neighborhoods, improving environmental resilience, and expanding equitable access to green space. The 2026 grant recipients, along with communities and institutions recognized through Tree City USA, Tree Campus Higher Education, and Tree Line USA programs, represent a coordinated statewide effort to care for and grow the urban forest.
2026 RI Urban & Community Forestry (UCF) Grant Program Recipients
The RI UCF Grant Program supports municipalities and nonprofit organizations working to plant, manage, and protect trees in their communities. These projects often focus on canopy expansion, public education, and long-term forest management planning.
This year’s recipients include:
- City of East Providence — $10,000
- Groundwork RI — $10,000
- Newport Tree Conservancy — $10,000
- Town of North Kingstown — $1,000
- Town of North Providence — $4,600
- Providence Neighborhood Planting Program — $10,000
- Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council — $5,000
These awards will help advance local efforts ranging from neighborhood tree planting to watershed restoration and urban canopy improvements.
2026 Tree Equity RI Grant Program Recipients
The Tree Equity RI Grant Program targets investment in communities where tree canopy has historically been limited, ensuring that the benefits of trees—such as cleaner air, reduced heat, and improved public health—are shared more equitably.
2026 recipients include:
- Providence Neighborhood Planting Program — $50,000
- Groundwork RI — $50,000
- Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council — $30,000
- Town of North Providence — $20,000
These larger-scale awards reflect a strategic focus on climate resilience and environmental justice across Rhode Island.
2025 Tree City USA Communities
The Tree City USA designation recognizes municipalities that demonstrate a sustained commitment to urban forestry through policy, funding, and community engagement.
Rhode Island’s 2025 Tree City USA communities include:
- Barrington — 7 years
- Bristol — 25 years
- Central Falls — 12 years
- Cranston — 7 years
- East Greenwich — 1st year
- East Providence — 32 years (Growth Award recipient)
- Jamestown — 24 years
- Middletown — 8 years
- Narragansett — 15 years
- Newport — 35 years
- North Kingstown — 1st year
- Pawtucket — 20 years
- Portsmouth — 20 years
- Providence — 40 years
- Warren — 24 years
- Warwick — 26 years
- West Warwick — 25 years
Notably, East Greenwich and North Kingstown celebrate their first year of designation, while Providence marks an impressive 40-year commitment to urban forestry.
2025 Tree Campus Higher Education
Colleges and universities recognized by the Tree Campus Higher Education program demonstrate leadership in integrating tree stewardship into campus life and learning.
2025 recognized campuses:
- Johnson & Wales University – Providence Campus — 7 years
- Salve Regina University — 10 years
- Rhode Island College — 2 years
These institutions continue to serve as models for sustainability, engaging students and staff in meaningful environmental work.
Tree Line USA Recognition
The Tree Line USA program highlights utility providers that balance reliable service with responsible tree care practices.
- Rhode Island Energy — 2 years
Their continued recognition reflects a commitment to proper vegetation management, public education, and partnership with communities.
A Statewide Investment in the Future
Together, these grant recipients and recognized communities illustrate Rhode Island’s comprehensive approach to urban forestry. From municipal leadership to nonprofit innovation and utility stewardship, each plays a role in expanding and maintaining a healthy tree canopy.
These efforts not only enhance the beauty of Rhode Island’s cities and towns but also contribute to climate resilience, public health, and stronger, more connected communities for years to come.