The Ellsworth Arbor Commission received over $190,000 in grants to enhance urban areas and combat climate impacts.
ELLSWORTH, Maine — Ellsworth will soon add over 150 new trees to its urban landscape, thanks to $193,000 in grants awarded to the Ellsworth Arbor Commission to expand green spaces and increase the city’s climate resilience.
“This is a huge opportunity for the City of Ellsworth,” Mary Blackstone, Arbor Commission Vice Chair and Green Ellsworth Community Liaison said.
The project’s funding includes a $20,000 grant from the Maine Forest Service to develop a comprehensive forest management plan. Additionally, a $173,000 federal grant will support tree planting along High Street, stretching down to the Union River.
“It’s the first time, at least in recent history, that so much money has been allocated to trees in Ellsworth, so we’re really excited,” Tabatha White, Arbor Commission Chair, said.
Leaders said adding more tree canopy to the urban downtown area of Ellsworth will help it …