Bill > S02353

This bill establishes the New York Urban and Community Tree Planting and Forestry Program, which aims to support urban forestry and tree planting efforts across the state. The program will provide education, technical assistance, and grants to urban areas and communities, with a specific focus on disadvantaged communities. Key provisions include creating a working group of 15 experts to guide the program, conducting a comprehensive study on urban tree planting by 2026, and establishing a dedicated state fund to support these efforts. The program will help communities inventory their forest resources, assist in tree planting and maintenance, develop a legacy tree program, create an urban forestry volunteer program, and map naturalized woodlands. The bill mandates that at least 40% of program benefits must go to disadvantaged communities, and sets strict requirements for tree selection, sourcing, and care, including using locally sourced seeds and ensuring species diversity. The program will be administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, with the goal of improving urban forest resources, promoting energy conservation, and enhancing environmental and community well-being.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2353