Grant Funding for Randall’s Island Park Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
New York, NY — July 26 – The Randall’s Island Park Alliance (RIPA) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $497,742 grant through the New York State Urban and Community Forestry Grants program. This funding will support the implementation of the “Randall’s Island Park Community Forest Management Plan” (CFMP), a three-year initiative aimed at revitalizing the park’s urban forest and enhancing its ecological and recreational value.
The CFMP is a comprehensive urban forestry project set to begin in August 2024. It includes targeted tree maintenance such as pruning and removal of hazardous trees, long-term care including routine pruning and young tree training, and a focus on sustainability and community involvement. The project is designed to address both immediate and long-term forest maintenance needs within Randall’s Island Park, contributing to the health of the park’s landscape and the enjoyment of its visitors.
A key feature of this project is community engagement. RIPA will host six volunteer events annually to involve local residents in tree care activities. Additionally, in collaboration with TreesNY, up to 75 community members will have the opportunity to receive Citizen Pruner Training, empowering individuals to actively participate in maintaining the park’s tree canopy. Outreach efforts will include social media campaigns, quarterly newsletters, and biannual tours focused on the park’s forest, offering the public both education and hands-on experiences in urban forestry.
This grant will also help fund critical components of the CFMP, including salaries for key staff, hiring certified arboriculture companies for tree care, and covering the costs of Citizen Pruner Certification Courses.
“The success of this project is a testament to the dedication and hard work of many here,” said Chris Girgenti, Director of Environmental Programs at Randall’s Island Park Alliance. “I look forward to collaborating with all of you as we embark on this transformative journey for the park.”
For more information about this urban forestry initiative, visit ny.gov.