Select schools in Hunterdon, Warren, and Morris counties awarded tree-planting grants
NEW JERSEY — Select schools in Hunterdon, Warren, and Morris counties will receive state grants as part of a $4.5 million effort to plant thousands of trees across New Jersey through the Trees for Schools program, officials announced Thursday.
The initiative, spearheaded by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Sustainable Jersey, and The College of New Jersey, aims to improve shade coverage, mitigate stormwater runoff, reduce carbon emissions, and fight the urban heat-island effect on school campuses.
In total, 40 public schools, colleges, and universities were awarded grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 for tree planting projects planned for spring 2026.
In Hunterdon County, the Hunterdon County Vocational School District will receive $20,000, and Readington Township Public Schools will receive $39,463. In Warren County, the Lopatcong School District will benefit from $33,165. Morris County was awarded some of the largest local grants, with the Morris School District receiving $202,400, Madison Public School District receiving $91,200, and Randolph Township Schools receiving $67,716.
“The planting of trees in urban areas is an incredible tool in our work to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “Expanding tree canopies at school campuses will make it easier for students, staff and residents to find shade on hot days while providing numerous environmental benefits.”
The funding covers all aspects of the projects, including planning, purchasing, planting, and maintaining trees for three years. Officials said more than half of the projects are in overburdened communities that often experience higher temperatures due to limited green space and excess pavement.
“This is practical and meaningful climate action,” said Randall Solomon, director of Sustainable Jersey. “We look forward to working with these schools to expand their tree canopy and provide students with a vital connection to nature.”
The Trees for Schools program, launched in 2023 and funded through New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), aims to plant over 4,500 trees statewide in its second round of funding. In its first year, the program supported the planting of nearly 3,000 trees at 33 school campuses.
The grants support local sustainability, improve educational environments, and promote long-term climate resilience throughout New Jersey’s school communities.
