Oswego Adopts Urban Forestry Plan Thanks To $25K Grant

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego adopted an urban forestry management plan in June thanks to a $25,000 grant to complete a tree inventory, officials announced Wednesday.

The grant comes from the Urban and Community Forestry Programs of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Eastern Region. The funds allowed the village to estimate the number of trees in town and their size, condition and species, as well as increase planting opportunities.

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The inventory was completed in February.

"We are honored to receive this grant which will help guide Oswego's urban forestry efforts," Village President Ryan Kauffman said in a statement. "This funding not only supports the health and beauty of our community but also underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship. By investing in our urban forest, we are investing in a greener, healthier future for our village and planet."

Lydia Scott, director of CRTI, said the funding helps protect urban trees, which are "critical infrastructure for a community."

"Trees clean our air and water, reduce flooding and heat, improve our mental and physical health, and provide important habitat for birds and other wildlife," she said in a statement.