City of Shelbyville awarded grant for comprehensive tree planting initiative

The City of Shelbyville has announced it has been awarded a grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support a comprehensive tree inventory and community engagement initiative focused on urban forestry and tree planting.

The grant will fund the city’s Tree Inventory and Community Engagement and Tree Planting Project which aims to restore and diversify the urban tree canopy throughout the city.

The project will begin with a detailed tree inventory, providing essential data on the health, diversity and distribution of the city’s existing trees. The inventory will help identify areas most in need of new tree planting and pinpoint locations where invasive species should be removed.

The project also includes multiple community planting events to engage residents, educating the public on the benefits of urban forestry, and enhancing the overall quality of life in Shelbyville.

“Our goal is to create a more sustainable and resilient urban environment by strategically enhancing our tree canopy,” said Adam Rude, Planning Director of Shelbyville, in a media release. “This grant from the DNR is a significant step towards achieving that goal and aligns perfectly with our community’s vision of connecting more closely with our natural environment.”

Project highlights include:

• Tree inventory – Conducting a comprehensive survey of all trees within the city limits, which will provide crucial information for future tree planting efforts and urban forest management. This data-driven approach will help identify priority areas for tree planting, focusing on disadvantaged census tracts, parks and streets.
• Community Engagement and Planting Days – Organizing several community planting events throughout 2025 and 2026 to engage residents and local organizations in tree planting activities. These events will serve as opportunities for community members to learn about the importance of urban forestry and actively participate in enhancing their local environment.
• Environmental and Social Benefits – The project aims to improve air quality, reduce erosion and stormwater runoff, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and provide equitable access to green spaces. The initiative also supports local industries by promoting the Indiana nursery industry and supporting arboriculture and landscape services.
• Partnerships and Collaboration – The City of Shelbyville has establish partnerships with several local organizations including Mathies Landscaping, BRANCH, the Blue River Community Foundation, and Knauf Insulation. These collaborations will be instrumental in the successful implementation of the project and ongoing maintenance of the urban forest.”

“The involvement of our community is crucial to the success of this project,” said Maria Henriquez, Deputy Planning Director of Shelbyville. “By working together with local residents and organizations, we can create a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone.”

For more information about the City of Shelbyville’s Urban Forestry Grant project and how to get involved in the community planting events, contact the City of Shelbyville planning department at 317-392-5102.

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