Trees for Nebraska Towns provides nearly $300,000 in grant funding to help with tree-planting and associated landscaping in communities across Nebraska.

"Like streets, sidewalks and other utilities, shade trees are a vital part of a community's infrastructure," grants coordinator Justin Evertson says, "and as with all utilities, the community forest needs to be properly managed, updated and sometimes replaced."

The program is part of the ReTree Nebraska initiative.

Application forms are available and will be accepted through July 31. Program information:

Applications are available on-line at arboretum.unl.edu or by contacting the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum at 402-472-2971 or [email protected].