Forestry grant aims to improve sustainability in Southfield

SOUTHFIELD — A city always has a nicer look when the fast-paced traffic and high-rise buildings have an environmental feel around them.

As the city of Southfield aims to improve its sustainability, a forestry program grant looks to do just that.

The city has applied for a grant with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

“Anytime the city is seeking grant money, they need to get council permission before they go out,” Southfield Mayor Kenson Siver said. “A lot of times grants have stipulations, and this particular grant is $10,000, but it has a 50/50 match.”

What that means is that the city would have to come up with $10,000 as well toward the program.

If successful, the city will spend $20,000 toward the planting of trees within the city. The process would end in the spring with approximately 25 to 40 new trees set to call the city of Southfield home.

“When we see these opportunities and we can get the matching funds, then we go for it,” Siver said.

Southfield has been successful in the past with forestry grants and will look to continue that success this year.

A main factor behind the program has been Southfield’s commitment to sustainability, which was emphasized in the city’s “Master Plan 2.0” blueprint.

“Every year, we plant trees; it’s part of our sustainability.” Siver said.

While an approval on the grant would be a step in the right direction, the city would have to have the trees paid for and planted by Sept. 1 of next year.

Areas that qualify for newly planted trees will be determined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and it will be based on environmental justice, tree equity and community need.

The forestry program is just one step further towards a sustainable Southfield.

“We’re committed to keeping and maintaining a green canopy in Southfield,” Siver said.